Spongy Moth Program Manual
Some processes, equipment, and materials described in this manual may be patented. Inclusion in this 

manual does not constitute permission for use from the patent owner. The use of any patented invention in 

the performance of the processes described in this manual is solely the responsibility of the user. APHIS 

does not indemnify the user against liability for patent infringement and will not be liable to the user or to any 

third party for patent infringement.

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basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, 

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(202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

When using pesticides, read and follow all label instructions.

NEW Edition Issued 2023
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual TOC-1

Spongy Moth 

Program 

Contents

Contents TOC-1

Figures LOF-1

Tables LOT-1

Introduction 1-1

Survey 2-1

Regulatory 3-1

Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Activities 4-1

Public Outreach 5-1

Eradication Treatments 6-1

Appendix A

How to Assemble Traps A-1

Appendix B

Spongy Moth Data Collection B-1

Appendix C

Spongy Moth Molecular Methods and Submission Guidelines C-1

Appendix D

Compliance Agreements D-1

Appendix E

Guidelines for Environmental Documents E-1

Appendix F

Procedures for Composting Bark F-1

Appendix G

Protocols for Regulated Logs Originating in the Spongy Moth Quarantine Area G-1

Appendix H

Accurate Statement H-1

Appendix I

Qualified Certified Applicator Document I-1

Appendix J

Emergency Action Notification, PPQ Form 523 J-1

Appendix K

After Action Review K-1

Glossary Glossary-1

Index Index-1
Contents

TOC-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual LOF-1

Spongy Moth 

Program 

Figures

Figure 2-1 Example of Traps Plotted for Detection Survey 2-6

Figure 2-2 Delta Trap 2-9

Figure 2-3 Milk Carton Trap 2-9

Figure 2-4 Example of Traps Plotted for Delimiting Survey 2-19

Figure 2-5 Example of a Larval Trap on a Host Tree 2-25

Figure A-1 Example of Step 2 for Assembling Delta Traps A-1

Figure A-2 Example of Step 3 for Assembling Delta Traps A-2

Figure A-3 Example of Step 4 for Assembling Delta Traps A-2

Figure A-4 Example of Step 5 for Assembling Delta Traps A-3

Figure A-5 Example of Step 6 for Assembling Delta Traps A-3

Figure C-1 Example of PPQ Form 391, Specimens for Determination

C-8

Figure C-2 Excel Template for Spongy Moth Trap Submission C-9

Figure C-3 Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with 

Target-Specific Amplification Plots C-10

Figure C-4 Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay 

with Target-Specific Amplification Plots C-11

Figure D-1 Spongy Moth Compliance Agreement (page 1) D-2

Figure E-1 Example of a Generic FONSI E-9

Figure E-2 Example of a Completed FONSI (page 1 of 2) E-10

Figure H-1 Example of Accurate Statement for Logs and Poles H-2

Figure H-2 Example of Accurate Statement for Pulpwood (or Wood 

Chips) H-3

Figure I-1 QCA Document I-2

Figure J-1 Emergency Action Notification (EAN), PPQ Form 523 J-2
Figures

LOF-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual LOT-1

Spongy Moth 

Program 

Tables

Table 1-1 How to Use Decision Tables 1-7

Table 1-2 Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-9

Table 2-1 Distances for Various Trap Densities 2-5

Table 3-1 MB Treatment Schedule (at NAP) for egg masses of Lymantria 

dispar (spongy moth) on deciduous, dormant woody plants (except for broadleaved genera such as Azalea, Berberis, Camellia, Ilex, and Photinia) 3-10

Table 3-2 MB Treatment Schedule (at NAP) for egg masses of Lymantria 

dispar (spongy moth) on dormant evergreens (including conifers) and certain broadleaved genera such as Azalea, Berberis, 

Camellia, Ilex, and Photinia 3-11

Table 3-3 MB Treatment Schedule at NAP (Chamber or Tarpaulin) for egg 

masses of Lymantria dispar on cut conifer Christmas trees

3-11

Table B-1 Essential Fields B-2

Table B-2 Survey Activities B-3

Table C-1 Priority System for Processing Specimens for Standard RealTime PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay C-4

Table C-2 Diagnostic Results For the Four Subassays Using Standard 

Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay C-4

Table C-3 Diagnostic Results For the Two Subassays Using Dual-Probe 

Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay C-5
Tables

LOT-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-1

Chapter

1

Introduction

Contents

Purpose of the Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-2

Damage Caused by the Spongy Moth 1-2

Background on Spongy Moth 1-2

Cooperation in the Spongy Moth Program 1-3

Spongy Moth Dispersal 1-3

Potential Damage from the Spongy Moth 1-3

Scope of the Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-3

Chapters 1-3

Appendices 1-4

Spongy Moth Program Manual Users 1-4

Related Documents 1-4

Conventions 1-5

Advisories 1-5

Boldface 1-6

Bullets 1-6

Change Bars 1-6

Contents 1-6

Control Data 1-6

Decision Tables 1-7

Examples 1-7

Footnotes 1-7

Hyperlinks to Tables, Figures, and Headings 1-8

Indentions 1-8

Italics 1-8

Transmittal Number 1-8

Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Manual 1-8

Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Manual 1-8

Manual Updates 1-9

Preventive Safety Measures 1-9

Safety Reminders When Trapping 1-9

Vehicle Safety Reminders 1-10
Introduction

Purpose of the Spongy Moth Program Manual

1-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Purpose of the Spongy Moth Program Manual

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service–Plant Protection and 

Quarantine (APHIS–PPQ) is involved in the Spongy Moth Program:

 To detect isolated infestations at low population levels

 To eradicate isolated infestations on State and private lands

 To prevent the artificial spread of spongy moth to noninfested areas

The Spongy Moth Program Manual is a source of information on spongy moth 

and a reference for the methods and procedures for survey, regulatory, 

outreach, and control activities.

Damage Caused by the Spongy Moth

Spongy moth is one of the most destructive pests of shade, fruit, and 

ornamental trees as well as hardwood forests. In the period of 1980 to 1989, 

spongy moth defoliated close to one million or more forested acres each year.

Besides being a pest of trees, spongy moth larvae are a nuisance to people.

Spongy moth larvae excrete digested leaf material while feeding in the 

tree canopy. For this reason, people will avoid using wooded parks and 

yards during the larval season

Dead larvae produce foul odors

Spongy moth nuisances hinder people’s ability to enjoy the outdoors

When spongy moth populations are dense, larvae become hyperactive 

during the day. Heavily infested areas teem with larvae on trees, 

telephone poles, vehicles, fences, houses, clotheslines, and above-ground 

swimming pools. People avoid going outdoors for fear of stepping on 

caterpillars crawling on sidewalks and in play areas.

Background on Spongy Moth

Accidentally introduced into the United States in 1869 in Medford, 

Massachusetts, the pest spread rapidly throughout New England. Between 

1869 and 1890, spongy moth quickly developed into a serious problem in 

Massachusetts. Spongy moth damage was one of the key reasons Congress 

passed the Plant Quarantine Act of 1912.

NOTICE

Refer to Glossary on page Glossary-1 for definitions of terms such as artificial 

spread, and for abbreviations such as APHIS or PPQ
Introduction

Cooperation in the Spongy Moth Program

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-3

In spite of early eradication efforts, spongy moth is now widely established. 

Maps of the generally infested area and a list of areas under quarantine are 

available on the APHIS Spongy Moth website.

Research development and implementing survey, regulatory, and control 

programs have made spongy moth one of the most studied insects in the pest 

management field.

Cooperation in the Spongy Moth Program

Since the end of the last century, Federal, State, Tribal, and local government 

agencies have worked cooperatively to control spongy moth populations (by 

containment, suppression, or eradication, alone or in combination). 

Cooperative programs will continue to be the focus of the U.S. Department of 

Agriculture (USDA).

Spongy Moth Dispersal

With the current mobility of the U.S. population, the sprawling 

suburbanization of once-forested areas, and the insidious nature of the pest, the 

job of preventing establishment of isolated infestations by artificial spread is a 

difficult one. Household moves, especially the movement of outdoor articles 

such as lawnmowers and grills, are an important pathway for the long-distance 

movement of spongy moth. To contain spongy moth, an effective program will 

require: 1) public education on the problem; 2) public support in preventing 

spongy moth movement; and 3) early detection and eradication of isolated 

infestations.

Potential Damage from the Spongy Moth

All temperate hardwood growing areas in North America are potentially at risk 

from attack by spongy moth. Despite all attempts to prevent its movement, 

spongy moth continues to increase its range along the leading edge of the 

quarantine area.

Scope of the Spongy Moth Program Manual

Chapters

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: Survey

Chapter 3: Regulatory
Introduction

Spongy Moth Program Manual Users

1-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Chapter 4: Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Activities

Chapter 5: Public Outreach

Chapter 6: Eradication Treatments

Appendices

The appendices contain information directly associated with spongy moth 

activities.

Appendix A—How to Assemble Traps

Appendix B—Spongy Moth Data Collection

Appendix C—Spongy Moth Molecular Methods and Submission 

Guidelines

Appendix D—Compliance Agreements

Appendix E—Guidelines for Environmental Documents

Appendix F—Procedures for Composting Bark

Appendix G—Protocols for Regulated Logs Originating in the Spongy 

Moth Quarantine Area

Appendix H—Accurate Statement

Appendix I—Qualified Certified Applicator Document

Appendix J—Emergency Action Notification, PPQ Form 523

Appendix K—After Action Review

Spongy Moth Program Manual Users

This manual serves both as a field manual for employees performing program 

activities and a reference for program managers and staff officers. Primary 

users of this manual are Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) officers, staff 

officers, and State and Federal cooperators involved in carrying out the Spongy 

Moth Program on a day-to-day basis.

Secondary users of the manual are Federal, State, county, and local regulatory 

officials, private industry, and part-time employees temporarily assigned to 

program activities.

Related Documents1

Gypsy Moth Management in the United States, a cooperative approach - 

Final Environmental Impact Statement—1995)

1 “Gypsy moth” was the name of the pest at the time these documents were published. The pest is now known as “spongy moth.”
Introduction

Conventions

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-5

Gypsy Moth Management in the United States, a cooperative approach -

Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement - 2012)

Code of Federal Regulations (7 CFR 301.45)

Your Move Spongy Moth Free (Program Aid 2147)

Environmental Assessments

Gypsy Moth Proposal: Redirection of the Gypsy Moth Program and 

Attachment A—National Survey Plan for Gypsy Moth

Insecticide Labels and Labeling

National memorandums of understanding (MOUs)

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

State laws allowing access to private property

State memorandums of understanding (MOUs)

USDA Departmental Regulation No, 4400-1, Departmental Occupational 

Safety and Health Management, dated January 6, 1983

USDA Departmental Regulation No. 4400-2, Hazard Communication 

Programs, dated October 14, 1986

USDA Departmental Regulation No. 5023-1, Chemical Hazard 

Communication, dated October 10, 1986

USDA Hazard Communication, A Guide for Federal Agencies, August 

1987

Wildlife and Fisheries Regulations (Endangered Species Act)

Conventions

Conventions are established by custom and are widely recognized and 

accepted.

Advisories

Advisories are used throughout the manual to bring important information to 

the user’s attention. Please carefully review each advisory. The definitions 

coincide with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) with the goal 

of making the warnings easy to recognize and understand, thus limiting the 

human and dollar cost of foreseeable errors and accidents, and are in the format 

shown below.

NOTICE

Under Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) policy, only certified 

pest control operators may use or supervise applications of insecticides used in regulatory and control activities
Introduction

Conventions

1-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Boldface

Boldface type is used to emphasize important words throughout the manual. 

These words include but are not limited to: cannot, do not, does not, except, 

lacks, must, neither, never, nor, not, only, other than.

Bullets

Bulleted lists indicate that there is no order of priority to the information being 

listed. Bulleted lists are always in alphabetical order.

Change Bars

Black change bars in the left margin are used to indicate changes and appear on 

revised pages. Change bars do not always appear when text is merely deleted. 

Change bars from the previous update are deleted when the chapter, appendix, 

or glossary is revised.

Contents

Every chapter has a table of contents (mini TOC) listing only the first- and 

second-level headings within the chapter.

Control Data

Control data are located at the top and bottom of each page to help manual 

users keep track of where they are in the manual and be aware of updates to 

specific chapters, sections, appendices, etc., in the manual. At the top of each 

page is the chapter title and first-level heading for that page. At the bottom of 

each page is the transmittal number (month, year, number), manual title, and 

page number. To track revisions to the manual, use the control data.

! DANGER

DANGER message indicates imminent risk of death or serious injury.

! WARNING

WARNING message indicates possible risk of serious injury.

! CAUTION

CAUTION message indicates minor to moderate risk of injury.

NOTICE

NOTICE message alerts readers of important information or Agency policy.

SAFETY

SAFETY message indicates general instructions or reminders related to safety.
Introduction

Conventions

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-7

Decision Tables

Decision tables are used in some chapters of the manual. The first and middle 

columns in each table represent conditions, and the last column represents the 

action to take after all conditions listed for that row are considered. Begin with 

the column headings and move left-to-right. If the condition does not apply, 

then continue one row at a time until you find the condition that does apply 

(refer to Table 1-1).

Examples

Examples are used to clarify a point by applying it to a real-world situation. 

Examples always appear in boxes as a means of visually separating them from 

the other information contained on the page.

Footnotes

Footnotes comment on or cite a reference to text and are referenced by number. 

The footnotes used in the manual include general text footnotes, figure 

footnotes, and table footnotes.

General text footnotes are located at the bottom of the page after a thin green 

line half the width of the page and flow numerically throughout a chapter.

When space allows, figure and table footnotes are located directly below the 

associated figure or table. However, multi-page figures and tables or tables or 

figures covering the entire length of a page cannot accommodate footnote 

numbers and footnote text on the same page. If a table or figure continues 

beyond one page, the associated footnotes will appear on the page following 

the end of the figure or table. Each table’s footnotes are individually numbered, 

e.g., a chapter may have three tables and within each table is a single footnote, 

then each footnote will be indicated with the number 1.

Table 1-1 How to Use Decision Tables

If you: And if the condition applies: Then:

Read this column cell and 

row first

Continue in this cell TAKE the action listed in 

this cell

Find the previous condition 

did not apply, then read 

this column cell

Continue in this cell TAKE the action listed in 

this cell

EXAMPLE Examples are graphically placed boxes within the text as a means of 

visually separating information from other information contained on 

the page. Examples always appear in a box like this.
Introduction

Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Manual

1-8 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Hyperlinks to Tables, Figures, and Headings

Figures, headings, and tables are cross-referenced in the body of the manual 

and are in hypertext (blue) font.

Indentions

The manual indents content information, lengthy quotes, and entry 

requirements summarized from CFRs, import permits, or policies.

Italics

The following items are italicized throughout the manual:

Publication names

Scientific names of commodities

Transmittal Number

The transmittal number contains the month, year, and a consecutively-issued 

number (beginning with -01 for the first edition and increasing consecutively 

for each update to the edition). The transmittal number is changed only when 

the specific front matter, chapter, or back matter is updated. If no changes are 

made to a specific chapter, the transmittal number for that chapter remains the 

unchanged. The transmittal number changes for the entire manual only when a 

new edition is issued or changes are made to the entire manual.

Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Manual

The Spongy Moth Program Manual provides users with information to 

determine where to report issues, disagreements, or improvements that directly 

affect the contents of the manual. Refer to Table 1-2 to report suggestions, 

issues, situations, and disagreements that directly affect the contents of the 

manual.

EXAMPLE Refer to Table 1-2 on page 1-9 to determine where to report 

problems with the manual.

EXAMPLE 06/2015-08 is the transmittal number for this update and is located in 

the control data on the pages in this chapter.

 06 is the month the update was issued

 2015 is the year the update was issued

 08 is the chapter’s edition number
Introduction

Preventive Safety Measures

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 1-9

Manual Updates

The most up-to-date version of the manual will always be available online at 

the PPQ Manuals Unit website. The PPQ Manuals Unit issues stakeholder 

announcements for immediate manual updates via Granicus. These are 

numbered consecutively—allowing you to know if you have missed 

something.

The stakeholder announcements contain the following information:

Hyperlink to the Spongy Moth Program Manual

List of the revised pages (and/or tables) by number and purpose of the 

revision(s)

Preventive Safety Measures

Safety measures involving personnel, the public, and equipment are the 

responsibility of all persons working on the Spongy Moth Program. 

Supervisors must advise employees of safety and health regulations and notify 

employees of known hazardous conditions. Employees must comply with all

safety and health regulations. When necessary, wear protective equipment and 

report hazardous situations to your supervisor. Contact your supervisor 

immediately when an accident or personal injury has occurred.

Safety Reminders When Trapping

Avoid contact with poisonous plants

Beware of aggressive animals (e.g., dogs, bulls, etc.) near the trap site

Carry plenty of drinking water

Do not place traps in locations where you feel there is a dangerous or 

threatening situation

In areas with poisonous snakes, wear snake leggings and carry a snake 

bite kit

Prevent slips, trips, and falls by being aware of your surroundings and 

footing

Table 1-2 Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Spongy Moth Program 

Manual

If You: Then:

 Are unable to access the online manual

 Have a suggestion for improving the format (layout, 

spelling, etc.)

CONTACT PPQ Manuals Unit 

via email at IRM.ISMU.Manuals.Feedback@usda.gov

 Disagree with a policy or procedure

 Have an urgent situation requiring an immediate 

response

CONTACT Kathryn Bronsky at 

kathryn.e.bronsky@usda.gov
Introduction

Preventive Safety Measures

1-10 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Respect all property

Use preventive measures to avoid tick- and insect-borne diseases

Wear a high-visibility vest

Wear safety glasses when working or walking in wooded areas

Wear nitrile gloves when handling lures

Vehicle Safety Reminders

Always use seat belts

Carry sufficient repair tools (jack and lug wrench) and safety equipment 

(flares and first aid kit)

Carry wooden blocks to block the tires when parking on a steep slope

Check the condition of the vehicle before starting daily activities

Check to see if passage is clear before backing up the vehicle

Drive slowly when roads are unfamiliar, winding, narrow, or unpaved

Follow all relevant policies regarding using cell phones and other devices 

while driving

Keep the vehicle free of debris and unsecured items

Obey all traffic laws

Obey the posted speed limits. DO NOT SPEED

Park the vehicle facing the exit route in case you need to exit the area 

quickly

Select a safe parking place while servicing traps or when leaving the 

vehicle

Tell your supervisor immediately whenever you are involved in an 

accident
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 2-1

Chapter

2 Survey

Contents

Introduction 2-1

Materials for Spongy Moth Surveys 2-2

Planning the Survey 2-3

Conduct the Survey 2-5

Survey Records and Maps 2-11

Records 2-11

Maps 2-11

Revising Quarantine Maps 2-12

Detection Survey 2-12

Purpose 2-12

Detection Survey Protocol 2-13

Delimiting Survey 2-16

Purpose 2-16

Important Features 2-16

Delimiting Survey Protocol 2-16

Other Survey Tools 2-18

Introduction 2-18

Egg Mass (and Other Life Stage) Surveys 2-19

Larval Detection Survey 2-23

Slow the Spread (STS)/Transition Area Survey 2-25

Introduction

Spongy moth surveys are conducted by APHIS to:

Detect outlying introductions of the pest to new areas;

Delimit outlying detections to determine control treatment needs; and

Support regulatory decision making and actions

The Spongy Moth Program relies on effective survey tools, strategies, and 

methods to provide critical information that guides all other aspects of program 

delivery. The annual national detection survey is necessary to find outlying 

introductions of the pest in uninfested areas in a timely manner to ensure the 

introductions do not result in large, established breeding populations that 

would be difficult and costly to eradicate. Delimiting surveys are used to 

define the outer boundaries of an infestation or to ensure small, outlying 

populations go extinct on their own due to natural factors (e.g., predation and 
Survey

Materials for Spongy Moth Surveys

2-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

inability to find mating partners). Egg mass and other types of surveys are 

useful in determining population levels and infestation densities.

Because the information gathered through survey work underpins the rest of 

the Spongy Moth Program’s efforts, it is important to conduct surveys 

properly. Properly run surveys provide quality information to the program, and 

conversely, poorly run surveys yield lower quality, less useful information 

compromising overall program effectiveness. This chapter provides guidance 

on how to properly plan and conduct a spongy moth survey.

Materials for Spongy Moth Surveys

Colored pencils or pens for mapping moth finds

Delta traps

First aid kit

Grease pencil for writing on trap or preprinted labels

Grid overlay, calipers, or ruler

High-visibility vest

Maps (County, city, plat, etc.)

Mobile data device and Global Positioning System (GPS) unit

Nitrile gloves

Pliers to remove staples from trees

PPQ Form 343 (Trapping Record) or local form

PPQ Form 391, Specimens for Determination

Safety glasses if hiking in wooded areas

Small backpack

Spongy moth door hanger for landowner notice

Spongy moth lures (sex attractant for traps)

Snake leggings

Standard stapler, standard staples for assembling traps

Staples (9/16", heavy duty), heavy duty staple gun, string, zip ties—where 

owners will not allow staples (for hanging traps)

Surveyor’s flagging ribbon (marking tape), crayon, or marker for marking 

trap locations

Tick and insect repellent; sunscreen

Trap record sheets
Survey

Planning the Survey

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 2-3

Planning the Survey

The National Spongy Moth Survey is a resource-efficient survey designed to 

detect infestations before expansive land areas must be treated.

Step 1: Determine the type of survey to be conducted (e.g., detection or 

delimiting)

If you are planning a detection survey, refer to Detection Survey on page 2-12

for categorizing sites. If you are planning a delimiting survey, determine the 

trapping density following the guidelines on Delimiting Survey on page 2-16.

Step 2: Determine Trapping Requirements

When determining trapping requirements, consider the frequency for trapping 

an area and the last time the area was trapped. If an area must be trapped every 

2 years and the area was trapped last year, do not trap the area in the current 

year. Consider available funding and other resources when planning and 

conducting surveys.

Step 3: Determine Survey Needs (Personnel and Supplies)

Step 3a: Formula for Determining Trap Needs

The number of square miles in a category multiplied by the number of traps per 

square mile (trap density). Divide the total by the trapping frequency (in years) 

to get the number of traps required per year.

For a Category 1 area, which is 250 sq. mi. and trapped every 2 years, 125 

traps are needed.

# sq. mi. x trap density

trapping frequency = total no. of traps required

EXAMPLE Determine trap needs for Category 1, which is 250 sq. mi. in total 

area.

250 sq. mi. x 1

2 (trapping frequency) = 2502 = 125 traps
Survey

Conduct the Survey

2-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Step 3b: Formula for Determining Personnel Needs

Divide the trap total by the number of traps a trap tender can service under the 

conditions experienced in a specific State. For detection surveys, a national 

average is 400 traps per trap tender. In areas with difficult terrain, the average 

falls to 250 traps per trap tender. For delimiting surveys, the average is 750 

traps per trap tender; for transition zone surveys, the average is 600 traps per 

trap tender.

Step 4: Prepare a Trapping Budget

After determining the needed traps and trap tenders, prepare a trapping budget.

Budget for the following expenses (adjust for inflation):

Travel costs for trap tenders

Trap tenders’ hours

Trap and lure costs

Other materials (staples, staplers, maps)

Conduct the Survey

Step 1: Establish Trapping Grid for Survey

Establish the trapping grid well in advance of the survey season (late winter/

early spring) to allow adequate time for review and consultation prior to trap 

placement.

Using geographic information systems (GIS) to establish the base grid density 

is very useful, though not required. In addition, GIS systems can adjust the 

scale of the map to allow for greater resolution when placing traps in higher 

densities. Using an established grid ensures appropriate trap distribution 

throughout the established survey area.

Capture GPS coordinates as traps are set; some find it useful to physically plot 

the trap locations on a map as a backup measure. To aid in monitoring and 

retrieving, number traps consecutively within a county as they are set. 

trap total

# of traps a trap tender can service = total trap tenders required

EXAMPLE Determine how many trap tenders to hire for the season when 

conducting a detection survey that requires 1,200 traps.

1,2000 traps

400 = 3 people
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Alternatively, you may use preprinted bar codes to identify a specific or 

individual trap.

Table 2-1 indicates distances for various trap densities.

Figure 2-1 indicates traps plotted for a detection survey.

Step 2: Select Sites for Placing Traps

Using the map with the trapping cells identified, set individual traps as close to 

the center of designated cell. While not essential, place traps on preferred hosts 

when available. Host trees are grouped according to spongy moth preference.

NOTICE

Never prenumber traps and set them randomly from a box or bag!

Table 2-1 Distances for Various Trap Densities

Traps per Square Mile Distance Between Traps (ft) Distance Between Traps (m)

00.25 10,560 3,219

01.00 5,280 1,609

16.00 1,320 402

25.00 1,056 322

36.00 880 268

Figure 2-1 Example of Traps Plotted for Detection Survey
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Hosts Preferred by All Larval InstarsApple

Step 3: Set Traps and Mark Location

Step 3a: Setting Traps

The timing for setting traps is critical. Phenology models may be available to 

assist with determining the proper timing for trap placement.

The grid locations are already marked on a map. Use discretion in selecting the 

exact location of the traps. Once traps are placed, record the location GPS 

coordinates within the grid. If a suitable trap location cannot be found within 

the grid, document the reason why.

General Rules for Setting Traps

1. Obtain property owners’ permission before placing a trap. If not possible, 

leave a door hanger or other program information with the trap.

2. Male moths usually frequent woodlands rather than open areas where there 

are no trees or shrubs.

3. If available, woodland edges are good sites for trap placement. If there is a 

choice, place the trap on the windward side so the prevailing wind currents 

will carry the scent (pheromone) into the woods.

4. If there are no woodlands or residential areas within a reasonable distance 

(500 to 1,000 feet) from the plotted map location, the best location for a 

trap is at the end of a hedge row or tree leading to a wooded area.

5. Place traps 4 to 5 feet high (or eye level if less than 5 feet) on tree trunks. 

In areas frequented by small children and animals such as cattle and bears, 

place the trap out of their sight and reach. Because of vandalism, trap 

placement is especially important when trapping Category S areas (such as 

recreational parks, campgrounds, and tourist attractions).

Apple Mountain ash

Aspen Oaks (all types)

Basswood Speckled alder

Birch (except yellow and black) Sweet gum

Boxelder Willow

Larch

NOTICE

Directions for assembling traps are available in How to Assemble Traps on page 

A-1. The spongy moth lures will remain active for at most 3 years from the date of 

manufacture (typically identified on each package) and if stored in the freezer.
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6. If possible, place traps in shady areas. Do not set the trap where foliage or 

branches will block the trap openings.

7. Complete trap record including a sketch showing specific trap location.

8. Avoid setting traps on or in the following situations.

A. Close to gravel roads (place trap at least 50 feet away from welltraveled roads)

B. Properties for sale

C. Parks or open areas where people can easily see the traps

D. Properties with aggressive dogs

E. Private property without the owner’s permission

F. School properties or along passageways where students walk

G. Sites where GPS coordinates cannot be obtained

H. Sites where farm animals may damage or destroy traps

I. Sites where road construction is scheduled or in progress

J. Sites within locked gates

K. Sites obscured by tree branches

L. Trees with poison ivy vines

M. Trees marked for cutting or removal

The distance between traps depends on the selected trap density and the 

availability of favored host trees. When possible, place the traps in a uniform 

array on choice hosts or in a preferred habitat.

Delta traps (Figure 2-2) are most effective when attached directly to the trunk 

of a host tree. The preferred way to attach a trap to the tree is to tie a string 

around the tree and hang the clip on the string or staple the trap to the tree. 

Hang the traps at chest height unless vandalism or animal damage is a problem, 

in which case they should be hung higher.

Milk carton traps (Figure 2-3) are used in Slow the Spread (STS) and other 

surveys to monitor spongy moth population levels when the pest is known to 

be present in the area.
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Figure 2-2 Delta Trap

Figure 2-3 Milk Carton Trap
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Step 3b: Marking Trap Locations

Mark trap locations to expedite trap tending as well as supervisory and quality 

control activities. Use plastic flagging ribbon or marking crayon. To mark a 

trap location, tie a piece of flagging ribbon to a telephone pole, tree trunk, or 

other suitable object at the roadside. The ribbon should be visible from the road 

when approached from either side. Mark trap location only when necessary.

Brightly colored plastic tape (fluorescent orange) has proven to be the best 

flagging ribbon. The marking crayon must be sufficiently soft to mark wet 

trees. Place a small piece of flagging ribbon near the trap.

In urban areas where streets are named and houses are numbered, use the house 

address and GPS coordinates for locating traps. Do not mark trap locations 

with ribbons or marking crayons in urban areas. Also, use restraint in marking 

roadside rest areas, picnic areas, tourist attractions, and other high-use areas 

where the ribbon will detract from the site’s appearance.

Step 4: Check the Traps

For detection surveys, check each trap at least once during the middle of the 

trapping season. For delimiting surveys, check traps more frequently, 

preferably every 10 to 14 days. Under ideal conditions, trap checking will start 

when the male moths start flying. Where vandalism is likely, check the traps 

more often. Phenology models can be useful for determining the proper timing 

for initial trap checks. 

Plan your trap-checking route before leaving the office. Select a route that will 

eliminate overlapping travel.

When checking traps, bring a supply of replacement traps and lures to replace 

all vandalized and missing traps. When replacing a trap, number the 

replacement trap with the same number as the original trap with an additional 

indicator (such as the letter “R,” e.g., 416-R) highlighting that it is a 

replacement trap.

When checking traps:

1. Check overall trap condition and replace badly damaged traps.

2. When trap contains a suspect moth, remove the trap without disturbing the 

specimen. Note on the trap record sheet the date and exact location of 

recovery and inform your supervisor.

3. Record the trap inspection by noting the date on the trap and PPQ Form 

343 (Trapping Record) or local trap record sheet.

4. Write the following information on the trap: trap number, county, trapper’s 

initials, date trap set, and each date the trap is checked.
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Check the trap by looking in both ends. There is no need to remove it from the 

tree. Look into the trap to see if there are any male moths. If a suspect male is 

present, remove and replace the trap.

Step 5: Submit Spongy Moth Suspects

Submit the trap with the suspect moth to your supervisor to submit to the PPQ 

Forest Pest Methods Laboratory (FPML) (formerly known as the Otis 

Laboratory) for confirmation and further identification. Alternatively, your 

supervisor may direct you to submit the specimen directly to the FPML. Refer 

to Appendix C on page C-1 for specimen submission guidelines. Record on the 

bottom of the trap the date, time, results, GPS coordinates, and any pertinent 

observation or action taken.

Record the date and all circumstances about the catch of suspect moths on the 

trap record sheet or in the USDA-approved database. Accurate information is 

essential to the trapping program.

Complete the form each time you check the trap and find spongy moth. The 

data you report is as important as the trap placement.

Step 6: Remove Traps

At the end of the trapping season remove all traps and examine each for 

spongy moth. Carefully look for missing traps. If a trap number cannot be read, 

rewrite the number on the bottom of the trap.

When removing the trap, remove all other materials (string, lures, staples, wire). 

Also, remove all flagging tape. Give all removed traps to the person in charge 

of the survey. For each trap containing a suspect moth, provide the following 

information: location (State, county, town, and GPS coordinates); trap number; 

trap tender’s name or identification number; date; and host tree name. Open 

traps on final check because moths can be missed when just looking through the 

trap ends. Flatten empty, used traps and dispose by incinerating or burying at a 

sanitary landfill. Destroy the lures with the traps.

Step 7: Report Survey Results

Refer to Spongy Moth Data Collection on page B-1 for instructions on 

reporting survey data into the USDA-approved database as soon as possible 

and on a regular basis as detailed in your cooperative agreement or no later 

than December 31st, whichever is earlier.

Step 8: Interpret Survey Results

If you found spongy moth during your survey, use the guidance on interpreting 

survey results in the specific sections below.
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Survey Records and Maps

To document the survey, accurate and complete survey records and maps must 

be maintained.

Records

Maintain a record of all trap locations including any descriptive information 

needed to help locate traps (trap site map or PPQ Form 353). Include 

information such as date set, date inspected, and date removed, as well as trap 

catches. Record this information on a trap record sheet or mobile device and 

promptly enter the information into the USDA-approved database.

Keep a separate record of any egg mass surveys. 

Use local guidelines for proper record maintenance. In developing local 

guidelines for survey records, determine what information is needed and the 

most efficient manner for recording each item.

Record all trap locations and positive trap findings; verify trap locations on the 

map. Traps for which no moth catches are reported are assumed to be negative 

for the season.

Record trapping data throughout the season, as frequently as possible, into the 

USDA-approved database. Refer to Spongy Moth Data Collection on page B-1

for instructions on reporting into the database.

Maps

For surveys, digital GIS maps or county or city maps are satisfactory.

Consecutively number every trap location within each county. The type, 

number, and trap distribution will vary according to local needs.

Prepare trap maps before the trapping season (the preferred method) using a 

grid system to assure proper trap distribution. Use GIS software, a grid, 

calipers, a ruler, or an overlay to plot trap locations. When you use the grid 

system of plotting trap locations before field placement, adjust trap locations in 

the field. Capture GPS coordinates and/or make corrections on all maps to 

show the actual trap locations.

Please ensure the map contains a legend detailing the program starting date, 

completion date, name of trapper, and any other pertinent information.
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When using maps for postseason decision making, indicate both negative and 

positive trap catches on the map. The negative traps are important when 

determining the pattern of trap catches and establishing treatment boundaries.

Revising Quarantine Maps

Determine quarantine revisions in consultation with national program 

management. National program management will follow established protocols 

for quarantine expansion activities by issuing Federal Orders, changing web 

listing(s), revising maps, and/or publishing interim or proposed rules in the 

Federal Register.

Detection Survey

Purpose

The purpose of a detection survey is to determine by trapping: 1) where 

isolated infestations of spongy moth occur; and 2) where further delimiting 

surveys are required. Detection surveys are designed to find isolated 

infestations of spongy moth as soon as possible after introduction; small 

spongy moth infestations are less expensive and easier to eradicate than large 

infestations.

Due to differences in habitat, host availability, and patterns of movement of 

regulated articles (refer to Regulated Articles on page 3-2) from infested areas, 

not all areas within a State have the same potential for becoming infested. The 

risk of potential introduction and establishment will determine the areas in 

which a detection survey is needed. High-risk areas should include areas 

receiving regulated articles and containing preferred host trees. Before 

conducting the detection survey, categorize areas within the State by 

infestation risk. The Spongy Moth Risk Model can help with identification of 

high risk areas. Refer to Detection Survey Protocol on page 2-13.

The time at which a detection survey starts and ends will depend upon the 

climatic conditions in the area. At the least, the trapping period should cover 

the entire projected spongy moth flight period in the area. Phenology models 

may be available to assist in determining flight periods. Please contact your 

State Plant Health Director (SPHD) for model availability. In practice, because 

spongy moth string lures last several months in the field, detection trapping can 

be scheduled by the calendar in any given area, if appropriate buffers are 

included to account for variations in weather from year to year. However, 

whenever captured moths will be analyzed genetically, traps should be checked 

as quickly as possible after the end of the local flight season. This minimizes 

in-trap moth degradation and helps ensure successful analyses.
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Detection Survey Protocol

Step 1: Categorize areas within a State (per the national survey plan)

Determine the total number of square miles in each category per county. The 

categories will determine the density and frequency of trapping in a particular 

area. Alternatively, each State may use the Spongy Moth Risk Model, an 

improved option for accomplishing this task. Not only does it provide detailed 

demographic and host information, but it also allows GIS specialists to add 

local risk data layers for a customized survey plan. Examples of such data 

include locations of railroads, campground data, postal address forwarding 

data, etc. Contact your GIS specialist for more guidance on using this model.

Using the Spongy Moth Risk Model can aid in establishing the appropriate 

grid density (1/mi2; 1/2mi2; etc.) based on the category of the survey area. Plan 

to trap for spongy moth in all categories except Category 4.

Category S (Special Site)—sites where infestations are most likely to be artificially 

introduced. These are sites with a history of receiving regulated articles from 

quarantine areas or transition counties (those not yet quarantined, but along the 

population front) and are also exposed to movement of infested vehicles (e.g., 

travel trailers, semi-trucks) from quarantine areas. These sites should be the 

highest priority for States to survey.

1. Category S regulatory sites—sites knowingly receiving regulated articles 

from spongy moth quarantine areas either under Certificate, Accurate 

Statement, or Limited Permit.

Category S regulatory sites include:

A. Firewood dealers and distributors

B. Nurseries

C. Saw mills, pulp mills, and veneer mills

Category S regulatory sites need a minimum of two random set traps 

placed on the site. Additional traps may be necessary depending on the size 

of the facility, but no more than 12 traps. When possible, place traps in all 

four cardinal directions on the property (N, S, W, E).

Mills under compliance agreements (CAs) to receive regulated materials 

from quarantine areas must have two to four random set traps placed on 

the perimeter of the facility within property ownership (if possible) each 

year. These traps are necessary to monitor compliance and potential new 

introductions to the surrounding area.

For mills under a CA in areas where spongy moth populations are not

known to exist and where a standard detection grid is not present, place an 
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additional 4 to 10 traps in the area surrounding the mill. These additional 

traps should not be closer than 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) to the mill, or 

further than 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) from the mill. 

2. Category S high-risk sites–sites likely exposed to movement of infested 

vehicles and outdoor household articles (OHA) from quarantine areas. 

Category S-High Risk Sites include:

A. Campgrounds

B. Commercial areas with interstate shipment

C. Rail transfer station

D. Recreational vehicle (RV) and travel trailer parks

E. State and Federal Parks

F. Tourist attractions

3. For Category S, the trapping density and frequency are:

A. Trapping density: for nonregulatory sites, random set (no more than 1 

trap per site or per square mile); for regulatory sites, random set 2 to 12 

traps as described above.

B. Trapping frequency: annually if for regulatory purposes, or every 2 

years as part of the National Spongy Moth Survey.

Category 1—areas with high potential for introducing spongy moth (people and/or 

regulated articles moving from infested areas into noninfested areas); the area must 

have a suitable habitat (host trees) to support a spongy moth population. 

Affluent residential areas

Cities with military bases or major universities

Residential areas with elevated relocations

U.S. Census population growth areas

High tourist areas such as National and State parks

Wooded, suburban residential areas

Nursery, mill, or firewood dealers receiving regulated materials from or 

near quarantine areas.

For Category 1, trapping density and frequency are:

A. Trapping density: 1 trap per square mile

B. Trapping frequency: every 2 years

EXAMPLE Counties surrounding large metropolitan areas such as Chicago, 

San Francisco, Louisville, Atlanta, Raleigh, and Portland
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Category 2—areas with moderate potential for introducing spongy moth; the area has 

a suitable habitat (host trees) to support a spongy moth infestation. 

Areas with moderate populations, such as small cities

Contiguous wooded areas accessible to people

Large, urban areas with limited habitat

For Category 2, trapping density and frequency are:

Trapping density: 1 trap every 4 square miles (0.25 traps per sq. mi.)

Trapping frequency: every 2 years

Category 3—areas with a low potential for introducing spongy moth, but a suitable 

habitat to support an infestation. 

Noncontiguous wooded areas

Rural agricultural areas with widely scattered small towns

For Category 3, trapping density and frequency are:

Trapping density: 1 trap every 4 square miles (0.25 traps per sq. mi.)

Trapping frequency: every 4 years

Category 4—areas with a lack of habitat or potential for introducing spongy moth. 

For Category 4, trapping density and frequency are as follows:

Trapping density: none of these areas should be trapped

Trapping frequency: NA

Step 2: Conduct Survey

Use guidelines in Conduct the Survey on page 2-5.

Step 3: Interpret Survey Results

If you found spongy moth during your survey, the decision to delimit in the 

following year will be made in consultation with national program 

management based on the following factors:

EXAMPLE Blue Ridge areas of Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, North 

Carolina, and Georgia. Ozark areas of Missouri and Arkansas

EXAMPLE The corn belt areas of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio

EXAMPLE Great Plains grassland/wheat areas, semiarid high desert areas, and 

dry desert areas
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Available resources

Host vegetation

Number trapped in current year

Number trapped in previous year

Potential for artificial dispersal

Delimiting Survey

Purpose

The delimiting survey determines: 1) the presence or absence of an infestation; 

and 2) the approximate size of an infestation, if present. When a single trap (or 

several loosely associated traps) catch an isolated1 or multiple moths, conduct 

a delimiting survey. The delimiting survey is usually performed in the 

following year, but if caught early enough in the current trapping season, some 

delimiting traps may be placed that same season to try to define the size of the 

infestation.

Important Features

The standard delimiting survey trap array is 16 traps per square mile. 

Special circumstances, such as the presence of sensitive areas or habitats 

containing endangered species, may require a trap array of 26 to 36 traps 

per square mile. The delimiting array should cover at least 4 square miles 

around the positive site or extend out to the next negative trap.

The positive trap(s) will be at the center of the trap array. The survey 

results from the detection survey supplies information for positioning the 

trap array.

When conducted after an eradication effort, a delimiting survey is called a 

post-treatment survey.

Delimiting Survey Protocol

Step 1: Conduct the Survey

Refer to guidelines in Conduct the Survey on page 2-5.

Examine the map from the previous year’s detection survey showing all 

positive traps. When plotting trap locations on a new map, consider the scale of 

the map and the required trapping density (i.e., 16 to 36 traps per square mile). 

Center the grid on the suspect infestation. Generally, 4 square miles of 

1 Triggers for a delimiting survey may depend on proximity to the leading edge of the spongy mothinfested area, i.e., a single moth catch well removed from the leading edge may trigger an egg mass 

survey followed by a delimiting survey and/or treatment the following year, while a single moth find 

nearer to the leading edge may not trigger a delimiting survey.
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delimitation will be sufficient or a 1⁄2- to 1-mile boundary (dependent on the 

trapping category in the area of detection). If the suspect area is spread out, it is 

necessary to trap a larger area.

Plot trap locations well in advance of the survey season (late winter/early 

spring). Plotting the traps on planned grids allows for results’ comparison from 

location to location. Do not arbitrarily place traps.

When moths are captured during a detection survey, a delimiting survey may 

be conducted the following year in the vicinity of the trap catches. In 

delimiting surveys, traps are typically deployed at densities of 16 to 36 traps 

per square mile over areas of 1 to 4 square miles. Larger areas may be 

delimited as indicated by results of the detection survey. The pattern of trap 

catches can be used to estimate the approximate area of infestation.

Uniform grid spacing provides consistent information, which will help 

pinpoint infestations. If feasible, use appropriate mapping software to create 

delimitation grids at the desired density with trap numbers plotted on the map 

at the grid points. If it is necessary to plot a map by hand, use a large-scale map 

such as topographic map or a county or city map with even spacing. Some 

counties have roads laid out on a square grid with road intersections reliably at 

regular grid spacing. Even spacing is important to prevent data gaps and 

maintain information consistency for evaluation.

The scale on a topographic or similar large-scale map is appropriate for the 

delimiting survey.

Figure 2-4 shows traps plotted for a delimiting survey.
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Step 2: Select Sites for Placing Traps

Using the map with the trapping sites plotted, select individual trap sites as 

close to the plot locations as possible. If you cannot hang a trap on a host tree, 

use another vertical surface, such as a telephone pole, to hang the trap, 

preferably within 100 meters of a host. Never hang a trap on branch tips.

Step 3: Interpret Survey Results

If the traps do not capture spongy moth during the delimiting survey, assume 

there is no detectable infestation in the delimited area. If the traps have positive 

finds, decisions about appropriate follow-up actions will be made in 

consultation with national program management.

Other Survey Tools

Introduction

The following survey methods do not use pheromone traps.

Egg mass surveys

Larval detection surveys

Figure 2-4 Example of Traps Plotted for Delimiting Survey
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Egg mass surveys and larval detection surveys are often done to supplement an 

adult trapping survey and confirm reproducing populations are present.

Egg Mass (and Other Life Stage) Surveys

Purpose

To confirm an infestation by providing convincing evidence (egg masses) 

that reproduction has occurred

To determine the population level in a specific area so the status may be 

changed (e.g., noninfested to transition area; transition area to generally 

infested regulated area)

To determine the population level near a high-risk site so the correct 

control and/or regulatory actions can be applied

When to Conduct an Egg Mass Survey

The best time is after leaf drop; however, egg mass surveys can be done any 

time after the females have finished depositing eggs. Phenology models may 

be available to assist with survey timing. A preliminary survey may help to 

determine if the females are present and laying eggs; the buff egg masses and 

the white female moths are easy to see on tree trunks and branches.

Where to Conduct an Egg Mass Survey

Egg mass surveys, which involve counting egg masses, are useful in areas with 

moderate or high infestation levels.

Egg mass surveys are particularly desirable when: 1) egg masses are the only

life stage present; 2) survey results are needed immediately, as for treatment 

decisions; and/or 3) populations are high enough to make the effort 

worthwhile.

Usually, egg mass surveys will not detect low-level populations with 

reliability; therefore, egg mass surveys are of limited value in areas with lowlevel populations (larval trapping is a better survey method in areas with light 

infestation levels).

Egg mass surveys in the following areas are most likely to detect infestations:

Areas adjacent to and downwind from known infested areas

Areas close to known infested areas, particularly those areas where traps 

catch numerous moths

Areas such as Federal and State parks, used by RVs

Areas where suspect possible introductions have been reported because of 

observed defoliation, sightings of females, or some other indicator 

Areas where establishments receive regulated articles
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Areas where numerous household moves originating in the quarantine 

area occur

Areas with preferred hosts

Characteristics of Egg Masses and Preferred Egg-Laying Sites

A well-established infestation may exist even though few, if any, egg masses 

are easily seen. Therefore, surveyors must know the characteristics of the egg 

masses and the preferred egg-laying sites.

Preferred egg-laying sites are in the following locations:

In bark cavities, under loose bark, and in bark crevices

On branches on the ground or on the underside of any type of ground 

litter, such as tin cans

On logs—including firewood

On outdoor household articles (OHAs), such as birdhouses and picnic 

tables

On signs

On stone walls and in the crevices of stone walls

On the underside of rocks not tight to the ground

On tree trunks in sheltered spots, such as under limbs

Under the siding and eaves of buildings

In fact, egg masses may be found anywhere near trees in areas with preferred 

hosts.

Larval skins and pupal cases may be found even when egg masses are not.

Basic Procedures for Egg Mass Surveys

1. Egg Mass Surveys Using Targeted Visual Surveys (Transects) on page 2-20

2. Egg Mass Surveys Using Small Plots on page 2-21

3. Egg Mass Surveys Using General Observation Technique on page 2-22

Egg Mass Surveys Using Targeted Visual Surveys (Transects). Egg mass surveys 

for regulatory purposes are usually targeted visual surveys.

Targeted visual surveys (transects) examine an area of 50 feet by 20 feet, 10 

feet on either side of a 50-foot centerline. The total area examined is 1,000 ft2

, 

roughly equivalent to the 1,089 ft2 in the 1/40 of an acre plots in the next 

technique.
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Before the egg mass survey:

1. Know how to identify and locate the egg masses.

2. Select the sites where spongy moth egg masses are most likely to be (use 

the criteria on the previous page).

3. Inform others of your intended survey area.

Procedure for the targeted visual survey—at each survey site:

1. Select an object, such as a tree or rock, 50 feet away.

2. Walk slowly toward the selected object, scanning 10 feet to each side, in 

front, and overhead. Examine all preferred egg-laying sites.

3. Count all observed egg masses.

4. Record all critical information (e.g., number of egg masses, site, method, 

and date of survey).

Egg Mass Surveys Using Small Plots. 

Before the egg mass survey:

1. Know how to identify and locate the egg masses.

2. Select the sites where spongy moth egg masses are most likely to be (refer 

to the criteria from Where to Conduct an Egg Mass Survey on page 2-19). 

Plots must be at least 300 feet apart. If circular, the plots will have a radius 

of 18.6 feet; therefore, they will be 1/40 of an acre (1,089 ft2).

3. Prepare a stake that will be driven into the center of the circular plot; this 

stake will have a radius-marking line of 18.6 feet attached. With its 

attached line stretched, this stake will help locate points within, on, and 

outside the circumference of each plot. (If four additional stakes are placed, 

equidistant, on the circumference, these stakes along with the center stake, 

will form quadrants.)

4. Inform others of your intended survey area.

Procedure for the small-plot egg mass survey—at each survey site:

1. Place the stake in the center of the plot.

2. Use the attached line to establish the circumference of the plot (or 

boundary of the quadrants).

3. Examine the plot (or quadrant). Start on a known radius and work around 

the circle. Scan in front, to the sides, and overhead. Examine all preferred 

egg-laying sites.

4. Count all observed egg masses.
Survey

Other Survey Tools

2-22 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

5. Record all critical information (e.g,. number of egg masses, site, method, 

and date of survey).

Egg Mass Surveys Using General Observation Technique. 

Before the egg mass survey:

1. Know how to identify and locate the egg masses.

2. Select a positive trap (or select an area suspected of being infested) as a 

starting point.

3. Inform others of your intended survey area.

Procedure for the general observation technique—at each survey site:

1. Start at the positive trap (or within the area suspected of being infested).

2. Examine transit lines placed on the main compass points (north, northeast, 

east, southeast, south, southwest, west, and northwest). Examine all

preferred egg laying sites out to a distance of 0.5 miles.

3. Count all observed egg masses.

4. Record all critical information (e.g., number of egg masses, site, method, 

and date of survey).

Spend no more than 2 days at any 1 site unless unusual circumstances 

warrant.

Egg Mass Surveys for Regulatory Purposes

Typically, egg mass surveys for regulatory purposes are done in areas 

surrounding establishments handling regulated articles. These surveys allow 

the environs of the establishments to be examined.

Areas in and around campgrounds

Forest edges near Christmas tree plantations

Forest edges near mills

Forest edges near nurseries

Each egg mass survey for regulatory purposes will provide information to 

guide quarantine decisions for the establishment handling the regulated 

articles. Typical quarantine decisions involve:

Whether spongy moth is present in the environs of the establishment

If so, whether the environs of the establishment need to be treated

Before the survey, know what egg masses look like and where to find them.
Survey

Other Survey Tools

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 2-23

To assess population levels at each survey site, refer to the Egg Mass Surveys 

Using Targeted Visual Surveys (Transects) on page 2-20 to survey for egg 

masses. If possible, walk in areas with preferred host trees.

Procedure for the Survey for Regulatory Purposes. 

1. Begin the survey in areas of importance (forest edges, campgrounds, 

campground edges).

2. Select an object transecting an area with preferred hosts.

3. Walk slowly toward the selected object, scanning in front, to the sides, and 

overhead. Examine all preferred egg-laying sites.

4. Count all observed new egg masses.

5. Record all critical information (e.g., number of egg masses, site, method, 

and date of survey).

6. Repeat above steps as needed in the establishment environs.

7. Determine the appropriate regulatory action.

Larval Detection Survey

Purpose

Larval trapping can:

Assess spongy moth larval development

Assist in evaluating treatments

Contribute to research

Determine the presence or absence of a reproducing population

Determine where and when to apply control methods (chemical or 

behavioral methods for eradication)

If desired, perform larval trapping along with or in place of egg mass surveys 

to determine an area to be treated.

Larval trapping takes advantage later instars seeking hiding places that larval 

traps provide (refer to Figure 2-5).
Survey

Other Survey Tools

2-24 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

How to Trap Larvae

Place traps at chest height by stapling (or tying) the upper corners of pieces of 

tar paper or burlap to host trees to form a skirt. The burlap or tar paper should 

be at least 9 inches wide and long enough to go around the trunk of the tree. 

Ensure the burlap or tar paper completely encircles the tree trunk, but remains 

loose fitting. If white oak is present, use this tree for larval trapping.

Place the larval traps on the trunk of a tree shortly before egg hatch is 

predicted.

After larvae emerge, check under the burlap or tar paper for larvae and pupae. 

Check larval traps two or three times a week. Collect, identify, count, and 

record larvae by tree site.

For best results, check during daylight hours (preferably between 10 a.m. and 3 

p.m.) on hot, sunny days.

Figure 2-5 Example of a Larval Trap on a Host Tree

NOTICE

Earlier instars I to III tend to stay higher in the tree; likely there won’t be many under 

bands until they become instar IV or V.
Survey

Other Survey Tools

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 2-25

Also check the larval traps after the larval period. Larvae often pupate under 

the covering of the larval trap.

Slow the Spread (STS)/Transition Area Survey

Introduction

The STS/transition area is an area between the quarantine area and the 

uninfested area; because of natural dispersal, the area is in transition from 

uninfested to generally infested. In States in which the U.S. Forest Service STS 

Program is operational, spongy moth surveys are conducted as part of that 

program. However, in States in which the STS Program is not implemented, it 

is critically important to detect infestations as early as possible. Early 

infestation detections will prevent the movement of infested articles from the 

transition area and will provide data to support regulatory decisions. Visit the 

Slow the Spread of the Spongy Moth website for more information about the 

STS Program.

STS Survey Types:

1. Trap Surveys on page 2-25

2. Transition Area Egg Mass Surveys on page 2-26

3. Larval Detection Survey on page 2-23

Trap Surveys. Trap surveys are performed to locate established populations in 

the transition area. If resources permit, the trap surveys are performed 

throughout the transition area; if resources are limited, trap surveys are 

performed in areas near the generally infested quarantine area.

In addition to locating infestations, the trap survey helps to determine when a 

county in the transition area should be shifted to the quarantine area.

1. The recommended trapping density is either of the following:

A. 2 to 3 km grid (STS action area)—equal to 1 trap per 1.5-3.5 km2

B. 3 to 5 km grid (STS monitoring area)—equal to 1 trap per 3.5-5.1 km2

2. The timing for setting traps is critical. Set traps before male moths emerge. 

Phenology models may be available to assist with determining the proper 

timing for placing traps.

3. Use delta traps or milk carton traps. Milk carton traps are available, but are 

currently not used in APHIS-funded survey work.

4. If at all possible, check each trap at least once during the middle of the 

trapping season. Under ideal conditions, trap checking will start when the 

male moths start flying. Where vandalism is likely, check the traps more 

often. Phenology models can be useful for determining the proper timing 

for initial trap checks.
Survey

Other Survey Tools

2-26 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

5. If the suspect moths were trapped where spongy moth are not likely to be 

introduced, send the suspect moths to a designated trained identifier.

Transition Area Egg Mass Surveys. Egg mass surveys are desirable when: 1) egg 

masses are the only life stage present; and 2) populations are high enough to 

make the effort worthwhile.

A basic problem with egg mass surveys is they usually will not detect lowlevel populations.

Several egg mass survey methods are available; these methods are described in 

Other Survey Tools on page 2-18.
03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-1

Chapter

3 Regulatory

Contents

Purpose of Regulatory Activities 3-2

Regulatory Methods 3-2

Regulated Articles 3-2

Regulatory Considerations 3-3

Operation Under Compliance Agreements 3-4

High-Risk Sites 3-5

Category One High-Risk Sites and Establishments 3-5

Category Two High-Risk Sites and Establishments 3-5

Category Three High-Risk Sites and Establishments 3-6

Moving Regulated Articles from High-Risk Sites and Establishments 3-6

Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees 3-7

Inspecting Nurseries and Christmas Tree Plantations 3-7

Treating Category 1 High-Risk Sites 3-8

Treatment Documentation 3-9

Mitigation Procedures for Small Quantities of Regulated Articles 3-9

Mitigation Procedures for Large Quantities of Regulated Articles 3-10

Spray Treatments for Large Quantities of Regulated Articles 3-10

Fumigation for Large Quantities of Regulated Articles 3-10

Logs, Pulpwood, Holiday Greenery, Bark and Bark Products 3-12

Procedures for Moving Sawlogs 3-12

Receiving Facilities 3-14

Procedures for Moving Pulpwood 3-15

Receiving Facilities 3-16

Procedures for Moving Wood Chips, Bark Chips, and Bark Products 

3-17

Procedures for Moving Holiday Greenery 3-19

Procedures for Moving Other Forest Products 3-21

Outdoor Household Articles 3-21

Self-Inspection Checklist (PPQ Form 377) 3-22

Outreach to Establishments Shipping OHAs 3-22

Self-Inspection by Homeowners or Renters 3-23

Inspection by Qualified Certified Applicators (QCAs) Under Compliance 

Agreements (CAs) 3-23

Preinspection Procedure 3-23

Inspection Procedure 3-24

Treatments 3-25

OHA Inspection Documentation 3-26
Regulatory

Purpose of Regulatory Activities

3-2 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items 3-26

Preparing for Regulating Mobile Homes and Mobile Offices 3-26

Preinspection Procedure 3-27

Safety and Inspections 3-28

Inspection Procedure 3-28

Treatments 3-30

Documentation for Mobile Home or Mobile Office Inspections 3-30

Purpose of Regulatory Activities

The purpose of regulatory activities is to prevent the artificial spread (spread 

caused by human activity) of spongy moth from quarantine areas to 

noninfested areas. Refer to Areas Quarantined in the United States for Spongy 

Moth for county-by-county listings.

Regulatory Methods

Preventing the artificial spread of spongy moth is accomplished by inspecting 

and treating, if necessary, regulated articles (defined below). Regulated articles 

may be infested by any spongy moth life stage—egg masses, larvae, pupae, 

and/or adults.

Regulated Articles

The following regulated articles require inspection and certification:

Christmas trees (including holiday greenery)

Logs (including firewood), pulpwood, bark, and bark products

Mobile homes and associated items

Nursery stock (trees with roots, shrubs with roots and persistent woody 

stems, unless they are greenhouse grown throughout the year) 

Outdoor household articles (OHAs)

Any other products, articles, or means of conveyance posing a high risk of 

spongy moth artificial spread as determined by an APHIS employee or a 

State official

Moving regulated articles to noninfested areas is restricted unless an 

inspection and/or treatment of the regulated articles is conducted to minimize 

the risk of transporting spongy moth life stages to noninfested areas.

Regulated articles may move unrestricted, without treatment or inspection, 

throughout contiguous quarantine areas.
Regulatory

Regulatory Methods

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-3

Regulatory Considerations

When planning a regulatory program to prevent the artificial spread of spongy 

moth from quarantine areas to noninfested areas, factors such as the type of 

regulated articles, quantity in the shipment, frequency of shipments, 

availability of personnel, available treatments, and the impact of the regulatory 

activities on regulated industries must be considered. 

Mitigation procedures must be conducted and appropriate documentation 

must accompany all loads of regulated articles leaving quarantine boundaries.

Quantity, Type, and Frequency of Shipments

If establishments regularly ship large quantities of regulated articles outside the 

quarantine area, the establishments may operate under a compliance agreement 

(CA). If establishments infrequently ship regulated articles outside the 

quarantine area, USDA–Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) and/or State 

personnel will inspect and certify individual shipments.

Personnel Available

The personnel available affects regulatory activities. The following 

individuals, if authorized, may conduct visual examinations, treat, and certify 

regulated articles:

PPQ officers

State personnel—State plant regulatory personnel

Employees of establishments under CAs

Qualified certified applicators (QCAs)—pesticide applicators operating 

under a CA

Private citizens (only for Outdoor Household Articles)

All eligible personnel must follow the instructions in this manual.

Documentation

Moving regulated articles from a quarantine area into or through a noninfested 

area requires documentation by one of the following:

Federal Certificate

PPQ Form 527 (self adhesive labels)

PPQ Form 540 (booklet of certificates)

Rubber stamp (provided or approved by USDA)

Electronic stamp (provided or approved by USDA)

Limited Permit

PPQ Form 530 (booklet of Limited Permits)
Regulatory

Operation Under Compliance Agreements

3-4 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

PPQ Form 537 (self-adhesive labels)

Rubber stamp (provided or approved by USDA)

Electronic stamp (provided or approved by USDA) Qualified Certified 

Applicator Document on page I-1

Self-Inspection Checklist (PPQ Form 377), contained in: It’s the Law: 

Before Moving, Check for the Spongy Moth, Program Aid No. 2147 (for 

OHAs)

Signed Accurate Statement on page H-1 (for logs, pulpwood, bark, and 

bark products)

Operation Under Compliance Agreements

Any person engaged in the business of growing, handling, or moving regulated 

articles may enter into a compliance agreement (CA) to facilitate the 

movement of such articles. CAs are particularly helpful when establishments 

regularly ship large quantities of regulated articles outside of quarantine areas.

The purpose of a CA is to bring a person or firm into full compliance with the 

applicable requirements for handling regulated material. A CA provides a 

written and signed agreement confirming their understanding of the methods, 

conditions, and procedures necessary for compliance with the spongy moth 

quarantine (7 CFR 301.45).

A CA specifies necessary safeguards to prevent the spread of spongy moth, 

such as disinfestation practices or applying chemical materials in accordance 

with the Treatment Manual.

A CA template has been developed for commonly encountered businesses and 

activities. Operating procedures designed to meet regulatory requirements at 

individual facilities may be captured in an appendix that details those 

procedures. On occasion, unique situations may arise in which a standard CA 

template is not suitable and a unique CA must be developed. These unique 

CAs must be developed in consultation with program management.

An example of the CA template is available in Compliance Agreements on 

page D-1.

PPQ officers and/or State personnel train employees of the business operating 

under a CA. Additionally, the CA signer may provide training to employees as 

needed.
Regulatory

High-Risk Sites

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-5

Employees are only able to inspect and certify regulated articles when their 

establishment is under an active CA and the employees have successfully 

completed appropriate training.

Employees who have successfully completed training and are operating under 

CAs are able to perform:

Completing appropriate documentation

Handling regulated articles and completing mitigation procedures 

according to a standardized procedure

Treating, if necessary, in a safe and effective manner to destroy spongy 

moth life stages

On an as-needed basis, PPQ officers and/or State personnel monitor the 

employees of the cooperating establishments to ensure compliance.

High-Risk Sites

A high-risk site is a site where spongy moth is present on the premises, 

Regulated Articles, and/or in the surrounding area. High-risk sites are likely to 

provide a pathway for human-assisted spongy moth spread to noninfested 

areas.

There are three categories of high-risk sites and establishments based on the 

type of regulated articles and documentation required for movement. Sites and 

establishments listed below provide examples of potential high-risk sites and 

establishments in each category. These lists are not exhaustive.

Category One High-Risk Sites and Establishments

Category One high-risk sites and establishments commonly operate under a 

State or Federal CA. At Category One high-risk sites and establishments both

the premises and the regulated articles must be inspected by a State or Federal 

official. Category One high-risk sites and establishments include, but are not 

limited to:

Nurseries

Christmas tree plantations

Category Two High-Risk Sites and Establishments

Category Two high-risk sites and establishments commonly operate under a 

State or Federal CA. At Category Two high-risk sites and establishments only

regulated articles must be inspected. Category Two high-risk sites and 

establishments include, but are not limited to:
Regulatory

High-Risk Sites

3-6 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

Firewood and associated production and distribution yards

Logging sites

Modular buildings, dealerships, rental facilities, transporters, and 

associated holding areas, (e.g., mobile homes, mobile offices and 

prefabricated housing)

Processing facilities and associated yards for logs, pulpwood, bark, and 

bark products

Wood chip mills and associated yards

Wood waste and associated disposal yards

Category Three High-Risk Sites and Establishments

Category Three high-risk sites and establishments typically do not operate 

under State or Federal CAs. At Category Three high-risk sites and 

establishments the emphasis is on outreach and self-inspection. Category 

Three high-risk sites and establishments include, but are not limited to:

Campsites and locations that host recreational vehicles (RVs)

Military bases (due to potentially infested vehicles and cargo)

Moving companies

Moving Regulated Articles from High-Risk Sites and 

Establishments

PPQ officers or State personnel inspect high-risk sites and establishments 

before entering into CAs and periodically thereafter. When a CA is 

established, PPQ officers or State personnel train company employees on 

provisions of the CA, treatment options for regulated articles, and 

documentation requirements.

If the company is operating under an active CA, regulated articles can be 

moved from Category One or Category Two high-risk sites or establishments 

because they have been appropriately treated/visually examined and the 

appropriate documentation is completed.

Regulated articles can be moved from Category Three high-risk sites and 

establishments after a visual examination. Regulated articles moved from a 

Category Three high-risk site or establishment must be accompanied by 

appropriate documentation (e.g., APHIS program aid 2417). 
Regulatory

Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-7

Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

The procedures outlined below are used to certify these items:

Trees and shrubs grown or stored outdoors in a nursery

Christmas trees grown as “balled and burlapped” nursery stock

Christmas trees grown for the cut Christmas tree market, which are not

classified as nursery stock

Inspecting Nurseries and Christmas Tree Plantations

The purpose of inspecting nurseries and Christmas tree plantations is to 

determine what mitigation procedures may be required prior to shipping from 

the quarantine area.

Inspection Timing

For regulatory purposes, inspections can occur whenever movement of 

regulated articles is planned. The presence of any spongy moth life stage (egg 

mass, larva, pupa, or adult) found on or near a regulated article constitutes a 

high risk of artificial spread. Inspectors rely on their knowledge of current 

population densities in the immediate area and previous history of the high-risk 

site to determine inspection timing.

In general, annual inspections for egg masses involving the premises and 

surrounding areas tend to occur after leaf fall in the autumn, when egg masses 

are no longer hidden by leaves, and may continue until leaves expand to 

provide cover in the spring or when larvae have dispersed. Larval inspections 

occur during and after dispersal from the egg mass. Phenology models are 

available to assist in determining timing of the larval development stages.

Inspection Methods

Inspections may include the premises, the regulated articles, and all preferred 

hosts in the surrounding area. What is included and how the inspection is 

performed is determined by the type of establishment to be inspected and the 

regulated articles to be moved. Whether the inspection is all encompassing or 

only of the regulated articles, it should be noted that egg masses can be found 

on all surfaces, and may be hidden in cracks or crevices. For a description of 

preferred spongy moth egg-laying sites, refer to Where to Conduct an Egg 

Mass Survey on page 2-19.

NOTICE

Trees and shrubs that have been continuously grown in a greenhouse under conditions in which no spongy moth infestation would be possible as determined by an 

inspector may be issued a certificate without piece-by-piece inspection. Refer to 7 

CFR 301.45-5(a) and (a) (4).
Regulatory

Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

3-8 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

Inspection Results

Inspectors use their judgment and the inspection criteria listed below to 

determine if conditions favor spongy moth artificial spread.

One egg mass (or more) found on the regulated articles or within 3 meters 

(10 feet) of the articles

Twelve or more egg masses per hectare (5 or more per acre) are found 

within approximately 30 meters (100 feet) of the articles

Heavy larval infestations found within 1,600 meters (1 mile), which could 

result in infestation through blow-in or larval migration

When any of the above conditions (or similar threatening conditions) exist:

The PPQ officer can issue an Emergency Action Notification, PPQ Form 

523. The EAN will state the required action(s) that must be performed to 

allow shipment. Refer to the PPQ Treatment Manual for more 

information on available treatments; or

A CA stipulating appropriate mitigation procedures is required

If no spongy moth life stages are found during the inspection, certificates may 

be issued for the regulated articles.

Treating Category 1 High-Risk Sites

When required, the premises of category 1 high-risk sites are treated with 

insecticide applications. Treatment is the responsibility of the regulated 

establishment. Insecticide applications may be either: 1) aerial applications; or

2) ground applications by hydraulic sprayers or mist blowers.

1. Aerial applications are usually preferred to ground applications. Aerial 

applications give better insecticidal coverage to the forest canopy and 

surrounding areas and are usually used to treat in or near the following 

high-risk sites: recreational areas; mills; nurseries; and Christmas tree 

plantations.

2. Ground application using a hydraulic sprayer is the preferred method for 

treating mobile home parks or isolated areas in nurseries.

When to Treat

Apply the insecticide when general egg hatch in the area is completed. Perform 

applications when first, second, and third instar larvae are present. Phenology 

modeling could also be used to help determine the proper timing of insecticide 

applications. Proper treatment timing is essential as pesticide effectiveness is 

reduced when the larvae are beyond the third instar. Best results are obtained if 

the application can be delayed until general foliage of preferred hosts is 1/3 to 

1/2 grown. If possible, treat immediately before moving regulated articles.
Regulatory

Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-9

Treating the High-Risk Site

Treat the infested portion of the high-risk site and the surrounding area to a 

depth equal to the effective range of the spray equipment. A minimum depth 

of 70 feet will usually suffice to keep migrating late instar larvae from 

reinfesting the site. If reinfestation does occur, additional treatments are 

necessary. In heavily infested sites, 2 or 3 applications 7 to 10 days apart may 

be necessary. Ensure all necessary permits and permissions are obtained prior 

to treatment.

Treatment Documentation

Records of all treatments must be retained for 2 years or according to State 

documentation retention requirements, whichever is greater, and made 

available to the inspector upon request.

After a high-risk site treatment and following any appropriate postentry 

requirement for the treatment, a PPQ officer or State official reinspects the site 

following the inspection protocols described above. If the treatment was (and 

is) effective, the PPQ officer or State official notes the action taken on the EAN 

and rescinds the EAN.

Mitigation Procedures for Small Quantities of Regulated 

Articles

Small quantities of regulated articles are defined as a quantity of regulated 

articles that can be 100% inspected by a State or Federal official in 1 working 

day.

Small quantities of regulated articles from a quarantine area must be inspected 

on a piece-by-piece basis by either: 1) workers at the establishments under 

PPQ direction; 2) PPQ officers; or 3) State personnel. For example, piece-bypiece inspection is used for assembly yard inspection of articles such as 

collected native plant material.

During a piece-by-piece inspection, inspect all surfaces including bark 

crevices where egg masses may be attached. When egg masses or larvae are 

found, treat either by: 1) physically removing after spraying with Golden Pest 

Spray Oil; or 2) applying insecticide.

NOTICE

The preferred treatment for egg masses is physically removing after spraying with 

Golden Pest Spray Oil (refer to the instructions under Treatments on page 3-30).
Regulatory

Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

3-10 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

Mitigation Procedures for Large Quantities of Regulated 

Articles

Large quantities of regulated articles are defined as a quantity of regulated 

articles that would require more than 1 working day to be 100% inspected by 

a State or Federal official.

Large quantities of regulated articles from a quarantine area are not usually 

inspected on a piece-by-piece basis. Large quantities of regulated articles are 

treated by: 1) treating the nursery or Christmas tree plantation as a high-risk 

site; 2) spraying the regulated articles with an insecticide; or 3) fumigating the 

regulated articles.

Spray Treatments for Large Quantities of Regulated Articles

For larvae on plants in large quantities of regulated articles, the following 

insecticides are among the products registered for spray treatments: acephate; 

carbaryl; diflubenzuron; phosmet; spinosad; and tebufenozide.

Fumigation for Large Quantities of Regulated Articles

Refer to the PPQ Treatment Manual for procedural instructions on conducting 

methyl bromide (MB) fumigations.

Trees and shrubs can be fumigated with MB at natural atmospheric pressure 

(NAP) using either a short or long exposure schedule. Do not use MB 

containing chloropicrin.

NOTICE

Some evergreen species, especially narrow-leafed evergreens and some azaleas, 

may be injured by MB fumigation. Plants in a dormant state are more tolerant to 

fumigation.

NOTICE

APHIS will not be responsible for damage of any type resulting from a fumigation or 

an attempted fumigation.

Table 3-1 MB Treatment Schedule (at NAP) for egg masses of Lymantria dispar

(spongy moth) on deciduous, dormant woody plants (except for 

broadleaved genera such as Azalea, Berberis, Camellia, Ilex, and 

Photinia)

1

Temperature Dosage Rate

(lb/1,000 ft3)

Minimum Concentration 

Readings (oz.) At:

90-96°F 2 lbs 2 hrs

80-89°F 2.5 lbs 2 hrs

70-79°F 3 lbs 2 hrs

60-69°F 3 lbs 2.5 hrs
Regulatory

Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-11

50-59°F 3 lbs 3 hrs

40-49°F 3 lbs 3.5 hrs

1 This table is similar to treatment T201-d-1 in the Treatment Manual.

Table 3-2 MB Treatment Schedule (at NAP) for egg masses of Lymantria dispar

(spongy moth) on dormant evergreens (including conifers) and 

certain broadleaved genera such as Azalea, Berberis, Camellia, Ilex, 

and Photinia1

1 This table is similar to treatment T201-b-1 in the Treatment Manual.

Temperature Dosage Rate 

(lb/1,000 ft3)

Minimum Concentration 

Readings (oz.) At:

90-96°F 1.5 lbs 2 hrs

80-89°F 2 lbs 2 hrs

70-79°F 2.5 lbs 2 hrs

60-69°F 2.5 lbs 2.5 hrs

50-59°F 2.5 lbs 3 hrs

40-49°F 2.5 lbs 3.5 hrs

Table 3-3 MB Treatment Schedule at NAP (Chamber or Tarpaulin) for egg 

masses of Lymantria dispar on cut conifer Christmas trees1

1 This table is similar to treatment T313-d-1 in the Treatment Manual.

Temperature Dosage Rate

(lb/1,000 ft3)

Minimum Concentration Readings (oz.) at:

0.5 hr 2.5 hrs 3 hrs 4 hrs 4.5 hrs

75°F or above 1.5 lbs 18 12 — — —

70-74°F 2 lbs 24 16 — — —

60-69°F 2.5 lbs 30 — 24 — —

60-69°F 3 lbs 36 24 — — —

50-59°F 3 lbs 36 — — 24 —

50-59°F 4 lbs 48 32 — — —

40-49°F 3.5 lbs 42 — — — 28

40-49°F 5 lbs 60 40 — — —

NOTICE

On pine: if treating pine Christmas trees for both spongy moth egg masses and 

pine shoot beetle, use the schedule for pine shoot beetle.

Table 3-1 MB Treatment Schedule (at NAP) for egg masses of Lymantria dispar

(spongy moth) on deciduous, dormant woody plants (except for 

broadleaved genera such as Azalea, Berberis, Camellia, Ilex, and 

Photinia)

1

Temperature Dosage Rate

(lb/1,000 ft3)

Minimum Concentration 

Readings (oz.) At:
Regulatory

Logs, Pulpwood, Holiday Greenery, Bark and Bark Products

3-12 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

Logs, Pulpwood, Holiday Greenery, Bark and Bark Products

The procedures outlined below are used to certify these items:

Bark and bark products

Firewood

Logs (includes logs for veneer, saw timber, etc.)

Pulpwood (includes bolts, edgings, trimmings, slabs, etc.)

Other forest products

Procedures for Moving Sawlogs

The Society of American Foresters defines a sawlog as “a log that meets 

minimal regional standards of diameter, length, and defect, intended for 

sawing.”

Although not mentioned specifically, veneer logs are subject to the same 

requirements as sawlogs.

Shipping Facilities

People or firms that regularly move sawlogs to destinations outside the 

quarantine area must operate under a compliance agreement (CA). A CA 

provides a written and signed agreement confirming their understanding of the 

methods, conditions, and procedures necessary for compliance with the spongy 

moth quarantine (7 CFR 301.45).

Mitigation Procedures

If they have been examined according to a standardized procedure, sawlogs 

originating from a quarantine area may be moved outside of the quarantine 

area. Sawlogs must be accompanied by a signed Accurate Statement stating 

100% of the exterior surfaces were visually examined no more than 5 days 

prior to the date of movement.

Inspectors (PPQ officers or State personnel) or employees of establishments 

operating under a CA examine the entire exterior surface area (100% visual 

examination) of each sawlog in the shipment.

The “laid out” method is the recommended method for 100% visual 

examination of the entire surface area of all sawlogs. During the piece-bypiece examination, all exposed surfaces and crevices on the sawlog are 

examined for egg masses, larvae, and pupae. Alternative inspection methods 

must be approved by APHIS or State personnel. If any spongy moth life stages 

are present, qualified personnel apply a suitable treatment before shipment.

Suitable treatments are listed under Treatments on page 3-30.
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Laid-Out Visual Screening Procedure. Using the “laid-out” method, PPQ officers, 

State officials, or individuals operating under a CA ensure no spongy moth life 

stages are present by conducting a 100% visual examination. The 100% visual 

examination must occur no more than 5 days prior to moving sawlogs out of 

quarantine areas. If the sawlogs are not moved within 5 days, they must be 

reexamined and moved within 5 days of the reexamination.

Procedure for a “laid-out” 100% visual examination:

1. Plan in advance for the sawlogs to be “laid out” with personnel and 

equipment on hand to clean and turn the logs.

2. Walk between the rows, examining the upper surface of sawlogs in the near 

row and the side surface of logs in the next row. If eggs masses are found, 

saturate with Golden Pest Spray Oil (EPA Reg. No. 57538-11) and remove 

using a wire brush or paint scraper. Vigorously brush or scrape the entire 

egg mass from the surface. If larvae or pupae are found, remove and 

destroy.

3. Have the sawlogs turned so the upper surface becomes the bottom.

4. Repeat Step 2. Examine (and treat if necessary) the surfaces not previously 

examined, completing a 100% visual examination of all exterior surfaces.

5. Arrange for shipment within 5 days by shippers under CA.

6. Document the inspection by completing a signed Accurate Statement on 

page H-1.

Sawlogs originating within the spongy moth quarantine area can be moved 

outside quarantine boundaries when:

100% visual examination of the external surface area is completed; and

Sawlogs are either free of spongy moth life stages or treated to eliminate 

life stages; and

Required documentation is securely attached to the waybill or other 

shipping documents accompanying the article

! WARNING

Log inspection involves work in a log-handling yard, obey the following safety 

precautions:

–Always wear a hardhat and steel-toe work boots

–Always listen and watch for yard equipment

–Because log stacks are often unstable, never go on or near log stacks

–Comply with any other safety precautions required by the facility
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Required Documentation

To ship sawlogs, two types of documents are acceptable:

1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA for moving sawlogs if the material was handled, utilized, 

processed, or treated in a manner determined by PPQ officers or State 

officials to remove or destroy all spongy moth life stages prior to leaving 

the quarantine area.

2. A signed Accurate Statement on page H-1 issued by trained personnel 

operating under a CA when 100% visual examination is conducted. Visual 

examination must occur within 5 days for moving outside the quarantine 

area.

Documentation must be attached to shipping documents accompanying the 

sawlogs. These documents are provided to the receiving facility upon delivery 

for the receiving facility’s records.

Accurate Statement forms are provided by PPQ officers and/or State personnel 

during the establishment of a CA. Individuals operating under a CA complete 

Accurate Statement forms and attach to the shipping documents. Individuals 

operating under a CA may reproduce or request additional Accurate Statement 

forms as needed.

Sawlogs originating outside of quarantine areas may transit directly through 

quarantine areas without an Accurate Statement if: 1) the point of origin is 

clearly indicated by shipping documents; 2) its identity has been maintained; 

and 3) it has been safeguarded against infestation while in quarantine areas 

during the months of April through August.

Receiving Facilities

Receiving facilities located in nonquarantine areas are able to receive sawlogs 

from quarantine areas if the receiving facility has an active CA specifying 

handling practices. In addition, the receiving facility must accept sawlogs only

from loggers or shippers under CA.

Required Documentation

Sawlogs must arrive at the receiving facility with a signed Accurate Statement 

or Federal Certificate attached to the waybill or other shipping documents 

accompanying the shipment.

Receiving facilities outside quarantine areas operating under a CA must

ensure sawlogs are delivered with appropriate documentation attached to the 

shipping documents. If the required documentation does not accompany the 

shipment, the receiving facility must notify PPQ or State personnel 

immediately.
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Procedures for Moving Pulpwood

The Society of American Foresters defines pulpwood as “roundwood, wholetree chips, or wood residues that are used for the production of wood pulp.”

Shipping Facilities

Firms that regularly move pulpwood to destinations outside the quarantine area 

must operate under a CA. A CA provides a written and signed agreement 

confirming their understanding of the methods, conditions, and procedures 

necessary for compliance with the spongy moth quarantine (7 CFR 301.45).

Mitigation Procedures

Pulpwood may be moved if: 1) fumigated; or 2) moved to receiving mills 

under CA by shippers under CA.

1. Fumigation—refer to the PPQ Treatment Manual.

2. Moving to Receiving Mills—Moving pulpwood from a quarantine area to 

a noninfested area involves special handling by: 1) employees at the 

sending site; 2) employees of the shipping companies; and 3) employees at 

the receiving mill.

Employees at establishments moving pulpwood out of a quarantine area must

inspect the shipment to ensure the following:

Only shippers who are under CA will transport pulpwood

Shipments will leave the quarantine area accompanied by appropriate 

documentation

Pulpwood shipments will only go to receiving mills in noninfested areas 

when the receiving mills are under CA

Required Documentation

To ship pulpwood, three types of documents are acceptable:

1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA for moving sawlogs if the material was handled, utilized, 

processed, or treated in a manner determined by PPQ officers or State 

officials to remove or destroy all spongy moth life stages prior to leaving 

the quarantine area.

2. Limited Permit—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA to allow moving sawlogs to receiving facilities outside the 

quarantine area operating under a CA for specified handling, utilization, 

processing, or treatment.

NOTICE

Shipments remaining within contiguous quarantine areas do not have any restrictions.
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3. A signed Accurate Statement on page H-1 —issued by personnel operating 

under a CA when 100% visual examination is conducted. When 100% 

visual examination of the entire surface area of the sawlogs shipment is not

possible, all readily visible surfaces of the shipment are examined. Visual 

examination must occur within 5 days of moving outside the quarantine 

area.

Documentation must be attached to shipping documents accompanying the 

pulpwood. These documents are provided to the receiving facility upon 

delivery for the receiving facility’s records.

Documentation forms are provided by PPQ officers and/or State personnel 

during the establishment of a CA. Individuals operating under a CA issue the 

documentation and attach it to the shipping documents. Individuals operating 

under a CA may reproduce or request additional forms as needed.

Receiving Facilities

Employees of mills receiving pulpwood operating under CA must ensure:

Pulpwood shipments from quarantine areas arrive from suppliers under 

CA and with correct documentation

Pulpwood will be stored, handled, and processed in accordance with all 

State requirements

Required Documentation

The documentation accompanying pulpwood to receiving facilities is 

dependent upon the mitigation procedures conducted at the shipping facility. 

Depending on circumstances, pulpwood may arrive at receiving facilities with:

1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA for moving pulpwood if the material was handled, utilized, 

processed, or treated in a manner determined by PPQ officers or State 

officials to remove or destroy all spongy moth life stages prior to leaving 

the quarantine area.

2. Limited Permit—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA to allow moving pulpwood to receiving facilities outside the 

quarantine area operating under a CA for specified handling, utilization, 

processing, or treatment.

3. A signed Accurate Statement on page H-1—issued by personnel operating 

under a CA when 100% visual examination is conducted. When 100% 

visual examination of the entire surface area of the pulpwood shipment is 

not possible, all readily visible surfaces of the shipment are examined. 

Visual examination must occur within 5 days of moving outside the 

quarantine area.
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All required documentation must be kept for 2 years or a time period specified 

in the receiving facility CA, whichever is greater.

Procedures for Moving Wood Chips, Bark Chips, and Bark 

Products

The Federal spongy moth quarantine (7 CFR 301.45) provides:

Bark. the tough outer covering of the woody stems of trees, shrubs, and other 

woody plants as distinguished from the cambium and inner wood.

Bark products. products containing pieces of bark including bark chips, bark 

nuggets, bark mulch, and bark compost.

Shipping Facilities

Firms that regularly move wood chips with bark attached, bark chips, and bark 

products to destinations outside the quarantine area must operate under a CA. 

A CA provides a written and signed agreement confirming their understanding 

of the methods, conditions, and procedures necessary for compliance with the 

spongy moth quarantine (7 CFR 301.45).

Mitigation Procedures

Wood chips, bark chips, and bark products, including biofuel, may be moved 

if: 1) composted; or 2) produced by a hammermilling process; or 3) moved to 

receiving mills under CA by shippers under CA.

Mitigations procedures vary depending on the end use of the regulated 

products.

1. Composting—wood chips, bark chips, and bark products can be composted 

to mitigate the risk of spreading spongy moth. For complete details about 

approved composting procedures, refer to Procedures for Composting Bark

on page F-1.

Composting treatments require a starting compost pile of at least 200 cubic 

yards. The compost pile remains undisturbed until the internal temperature 

reaches 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 4 continuous days or 100 °F (37.8 °C) 

for at least 6 continuous days. The compost pile is then turned so the outer 

layer, to a depth of 3 feet, becomes the core material. The turned compost 

pile then remains undisturbed until temperature requirements are achieved.

2. Hammermilling process—bark chips, bark mulch, and other bark products 

may be produced by log debarking, followed by chip size reduction using a 

hammermill. A hammermill consists of a large steel drum with a rapidly 

rotating shaft on which hammers are mounted. The rotor and hammers are 

spun at a high speed inside the drum while the bark is being fed into the 

drum via a feed hopper. The impact of the hammers on the bark pulverizes 

the bark into smaller pieces, which then exit the drum through a sizing 
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screen. A common form of the hammermill is a tub grinder. Bark chips or 

bark mulch of common commercial dimensions produced by this process 

are considered fully mitigated and can be shipped without further 

restriction.

3. Moving to receiving facilities—wood chips, bark chips, and bark products 

can be moved to receiving facilities operating under a CA for specified 

handling, utilization, processing, or treatment.

Employees at establishments moving wood chips, bark chips, and bark 

products out of a quarantine area must inspect the shipment to ensure:

Only shippers under CA will transport wood chips, bark chips, and bark 

products

Shipments will leave the quarantine area accompanied by appropriate 

documentation

Shipments will only go to receiving facilities in noninfested areas when 

the receiving mills are under CA

Required Documentation

To ship wood chips, bark chips, and bark products two types of documents are 

acceptable:

1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA for moving wood chips, bark chips, and bark products if the 

material was handled, utilized, processed, or treated in a manner 

determined by PPQ officers or State officials to remove or destroy all

spongy moth life stages prior to leaving the quarantine area, e.g., wood 

chips, bark chips, and bark products that have been composted, processed 

through hammermill machinery, or otherwise fully mitigated are eligible to 

move under a Certificate.

2. Limited Permit—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA to allow moving untreated wood chips, bark chips, and bark 

products to receiving facilities operating under a CA for specified 

handling, utilization, processing, or treatment.

Documentation must be attached to shipping documents accompanying the 

wood chips, bark chips, and bark products. These documents are provided to 

the receiving facility upon delivery for the receiving facility’s records. If 

treated bark products are sold to a consumer, the certificate may be attached to 

the invoice or packaging.

NOTICE

Shipments remaining within contiguous quarantine areas do not have any restrictions.
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Documentation forms are provided by PPQ officers and/or State personnel 

during the establishment of a CA. Individuals operating under a CA issue the 

documentation and attach it to the shipping documents and may reproduce or 

request additional forms as needed.

Receiving Facilities

Employees of the receiving facilities operating under CA must ensure:

Shipments of bark products from quarantine areas arrive from suppliers 

under CA and with correct documentation

Wood chips, bark chips, and bark products will be processed in 

accordance with any State requirements

Required Documentation

Documentation accompanying wood chips, bark chips, and bark products to 

receiving facilities is dependent upon the mitigation procedures conducted at 

the shipping facility. Wood chips, bark chips, and bark products may arrive at 

receiving facilities with:

1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA for moving wood chips, bark chips, and bark products if the 

material was handled, utilized, processed, or treated in a manner 

determined by PPQ officers or State officials to remove or destroy all

spongy moth life states prior to leaving the quarantine area. 

2. Limited Permit—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under CA to allow moving untreated wood chips, bark chips, and bark 

products to receiving facilities operating under a CA for specified 

handling, utilization, processing, or treatment.

Procedures for Moving Holiday Greenery

Holiday greenery is defined as wreaths, garlands, and bulk boughs typically 

made of, but not limited to, fir, spruce, pine, and cedar species commonly 

sold for decorative purposes.

Shipping Facilities

People or firms that regularly move holiday greenery to destinations outside 

the quarantine area must operate under a CA. A CA provides a written and 

signed agreement confirming their understanding of the methods, conditions, 

and procedures necessary for compliance with the spongy moth quarantine (7 

CFR 301.45).
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Mitigation Procedures

Holiday greenery originating from a quarantine area may be moved outside of 

the quarantine area if:

Harvested articles measure less than 1⁄2" in diameter.

Harvested articles are from an area determined to be free of spongy moth 

life stages by Federal or State personnel (field inspections and/or 

inspection of boughs at collection site).

Articles are moved to a receiving facility under CA for inspection by 

shippers under CA.

Required Documentation

Documentation must be attached to the waybill or other supplying documents 

accompanying the shipment. Documentation forms are provided by PPQ 

officers and/or State personnel during the establishment of a CA. Individuals 

operating under a CA issue the documentation and attach it to the shipping 

documents and may reproduce or request additional forms as needed. To ship 

holiday greenery two types of documents are acceptable:

1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA for moving holiday greenery if the articles are inspected and 

found free of spongy moth life stages determined by USDA–APHIS or 

State personnel field inspection results; a fumigation was the mitigation 

procedure used as treatment; a self-inspection of the articles by trained 

personnel operating under a CA was completed.

2. Limited Permit—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under CA to allow moving holiday greenery to receiving facilities 

operating under a CA for specified handling, utilization, processing, or 

treatment.

Receiving Facilities

Employees of the holiday greenery receiving facilities operating under CA 

must ensure:

Shipments from quarantine areas arrive from suppliers under CA and with 

correct documentation

Holiday greenery will be processed according to State requirements

Required Documentation

The documentation accompanying holiday greenery to receiving facilities is 

dependent upon the mitigation procedures conducted at the shipping facility. 

Holiday greenery may arrive at receiving facilities with:
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1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under a CA for moving holiday greenery if the articles are inspected and 

found free of spongy moth life stages or treated as indicated in State’s field 

inspection report; articles are fumigated prior to shipment; articles are selfinspected by trained personnel under a CA prior to shipment.

2. Limited Permit—issued by PPQ officers or trained personnel operating 

under CA to allow moving holiday greenery not inspected prior to 

movement, and transported to a receiving facility under CA for specified 

handling, utilization, processing, or treatment.

Procedures for Moving Other Forest Products

Other forest products are products not included in Logs, Pulpwood, Holiday 

Greenery, Bark and Bark Products on page 3-12 capable of moving spongy 

moth life stages. Other forest products may include: birch bark, nontimber 

forest products, etc.

Because other forests products may include various nontimber articles 

typically moving in small quantities, these should be handled on a case-by-case 

basis. Guidance provided for the other articles covered in this chapter may 

provide a starting point for determining appropriate procedures for allowing 

movement of these articles. Program management should be consulted when 

these situations are encountered.

Outdoor Household Articles

Outdoor House Articles (OHAs) include any article associated with a 

household that has been kept outside the home. OHAs include, but are not 

limited to:

Awnings Garden tools

Barbecue grills Outdoor furniture

Bicycles Recreational vehicles (RVs)

Boats Tents

Doghouses Tires

Firewood (when permitted 

under other applicable State 

and Federal regulations)

Trailers

Garbage containers
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Self-Inspection Checklist (PPQ Form 377)

This checklist is contained in: It’s the Law: Before Moving, Check for the 

Spongy Moth, Program Aid No. 2147 (for OHAs). PPQ Form 377 contains a 

list of OHAs on which spongy moth life stages are often found and therefore 

must be inspected. However, any list is likely to be incomplete, because 

spongy moth females can lay their eggs on any surface and the spongy moth 

larvae can rest or pupate on any article.

Containerized moving services are an emerging pathway for the humanassisted spongy moth movement. OHAs should be inspected and a selfinspection checklist (in It’s the Law: Before Moving, Check for the Spongy 

Moth, Program Aid No. 2147) must be completed. The self-inspection 

checklist must accompany the moving container throughout the move to the 

final destination. In addition, the interior and exterior of the container must be 

inspected and all spongy moth life stages must be removed prior to exiting the 

quarantine area.

Outreach to Establishments Shipping OHAs

When OHAs are to be shipped from a quarantine area into or through a 

noninfested area, the OHAs must be treated as regulated articles. Prior to the 

move, OHAs must be inspected (and treated, if necessary).

To regulate the OHA movement from quarantine areas, PPQ and/or State 

personnel are encouraged to contact the following establishments:

All moving companies in the State

All truck and trailer rental companies in the State

Media: radio, television, and newspapers

At all the above-listed establishments, PPQ and/or State personnel distribute 

information, such as the Self-Inspection Checklist (PPQ Form 377), contained 

in: It’s the Law: Before Moving, Check for the Spongy Moth, Program Aid No. 

2147 (for OHAs), and explain spongy moth quarantine. At the moving 

companies and truck and trailer rental companies, PPQ and/or State personnel 

provide: 1) information for distribution to homeowners and renters who must 

be regulated; and 2) a current list of qualified certified applicators (QCAs) 

authorized to work in the State. Refer to Inspection by Qualified Certified 

Applicators (QCAs) Under Compliance Agreements (CAs) on page 3-23 for 

more information.

NOTICE

Firewood is an at-risk pathway for the movement of a number of pests in addition to 

spongy moth. For this reason, some States have State-level requirements for moving firewood.
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Because OHAs are the most likely means of artificial spread, a strong public 

relations campaign is particularly important. The public must be informed 

through the media. PPQ personnel can obtain assistance in dealing with the 

media from Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA), a unit within APHIS.

Self-Inspection by Homeowners or Renters

Employees of moving companies, rental companies, and contract carriers must 

contact, well before their moves, the homeowners or renters who must be 

regulated. The homeowners or renters who must be regulated are the people 

who are moving OHAs from a quarantine area into or through a noninfested 

area. The homeowners and renters who must be regulated must be informed of 

their right to inspect their own OHAs. PPQ officers and/or State personnel are 

responsible for ensuring moving companies, rental companies, and contract 

carriers are provided with outreach materials, have access to It’s the Law: 

Before Moving, Check for the Spongy Moth, Program Aid No. 2147, and are 

aware of the regulations.

Homeowners or renters who must be regulated can inspect their own OHAs if 

they use the procedures in It’s the Law: Before Moving, Check for the Spongy 

Moth, Program Aid No. 2147 (for OHAs). Homeowners and renters who must 

be regulated can obtain this Program Aid from the APHIS website, PPQ 

officers, State personnel, employees of moving companies, rental companies, 

and contract carriers.

Inspection by Qualified Certified Applicators (QCAs) Under 

Compliance Agreements (CAs)

If the homeowners or renters who must be regulated do not desire to conduct a 

self-inspection, QCAs operating under CAs can inspect OHAs.

Operating under CAs, QCAs who inspect OHAs are: 1) trained by PPQ or 

State personnel; 2) licensed as pesticide applicators in each State in which they 

operate; 3) responsible to PPQ personnel for preparing and distributing 

certifying documents; and 4) monitored by PPQ or State personnel to ensure 

quality inspections.

Inspections are done no more than 5 days prior to the move during the highrisk period between April and August and no more than 14 days prior to the 

move between September and March.

Preinspection Procedure

Step 1: Ask the homeowner or renter who must be regulated to:

Identify and assemble all OHAs (including firewood) to be inspected in one 

location or make the OHAs accessible for inspection.
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Step 2: Assemble all tools necessary for the inspection

Certifying documents to record the inspection

Drop cloth to lie on when examining the undersides of OHAs

Flashlight, preferably a small, high-intensity flashlight, to illuminate 

nooks and crannies

Hand mirror, preferably small and plastic-covered, to examine the 

undersides of OHAs

Paint scraper or wire brush to scrape off egg masses

Probe, preferably thin and flexible, possibly a screwdriver, to probe nooks 

and crannies

Tools, such as Phillips and standard screwdrivers, to disassemble OHAs, 

if necessary

Tools, such as a lug wrench, a jack, and blocks, to remove wheels to check 

wheel wells and brakes, if necessary

Work clothes, such as coveralls

Inspection Procedure

Infested OHAs are more likely when there are indications of a large spongy 

moth population in the surrounding area. However, even when there is no 

indication of a spongy moth population, OHA infestation is still possible. 

Always perform a thorough examination of each article.

Step 1: Thoroughly examine each OHA and any household article that 

has been outdoors

The examination must include the entire surface area, including nooks and 

crannies. Use probes and flashlights to examine the nooks and crannies. Turn 

articles over to examine the lower surfaces. Remember that spongy moth 

females favor sheltered surfaces for egg laying. If an article cannot be turned 

over, examine by crawling underneath on a drop cloth, using a hand mirror, 

and/or probing with a screwdriver.

If necessary, disassemble articles likely to harbor spongy moth. Pay special 

attention to articles in close proximity to egg masses, larvae, or pupae.

Although they may not be typical OHAs, examine the following articles as if 

they were OHAs:

Articles left outside

Articles stored in areas open to the outside

Articles stored in areas with an opening to the outside

Articles stored indoors, but used outdoors
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As articles are examined, separate the infested items from noninfested items.

Step 2: Treat the infested articles; as an alternative, infested articles can 

be treated during their examination

The spongy moth life stage most likely to be encountered while inspecting 

OHAs is egg masses. Treat egg masses by saturating them with Golden Pest 

Spray Oil and removing any egg masses with a paint scraper or wire brush. 

Refer to Treatments on page 3-25 for more details.

Step 3: Safeguard the inspected articles

If any inspection is not done on moving day, safeguard the articles from 

reinfestation. Safeguard the inspected articles by:

Covering with plastic sheeting or plastic bags; or

Packing immediately in moving van or truck and enclosing or covering; 

and/or

Storing articles indoors

Disposable plastic bags or plastic sheeting safeguards articles for several days 

before a move. On moving day, remove plastic bags and/or sheeting from 

regulated articles and discard.

Step 4: Document the inspection

Refer to OHA Inspection Documentation on page 3-26.

Treatments

1. Physically removing egg masses (preferred for OHAs)—using a wire brush 

or paint scraper, remove an egg mass from an OHA. Brush or scrape 

vigorously to remove all of the egg mass; however, do not brush or scrape 

so vigorously the OHA is damaged.

2. Physically Removing egg masses after spraying—apply Golden Pest Spray 

Oil to an egg mass, using: 1) a sprayer with an adjustable nozzle; 2) a paint 

brush; or 3) a similar brush. Thoroughly saturate the egg masses to the 

point of runoff so the egg mass is “soaked.” The Golden Pest Spray Oil 

rapidly penetrates destroying even the innermost eggs. Then, physically 

remove the egg mass using a wire brush or paint scraper. Vigorously brush 

or scrape all of the egg mass from the surface.

3. Fumigating egg masses—the Treatment Manual contains the Treatment 

Schedule for OHAs.

NOTICE

The methods above are preferred over insecticide or fumigation.
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4. Spraying larvae—when physically removing larvae is not practical, a 

contact insecticide labeled for treating spongy moth larvae may be used. 

Follow label instructions carefully.

OHA Inspection Documentation

Four types of documents are acceptable:

1. Federal Certificate issued by PPQ and State personnel

2. Limited Permit issued by PPQ and State personnel 

3. QCA document plus an attached copy of the document (Qualified Certified 

Applicator Document on page I-1)

4. Self-Inspection Checklist (in It’s the Law: Before Moving, Check for the 

Spongy Moth, Program Aid No. 2147 (for OHAs)—for homeowners or 

renters who self-inspect

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items

Mobile homes and associated items are only regulated when they are moved 

from a quarantine area into or through a noninfested area. To move a mobile 

home or mobile office from a quarantine area into or through a noninfested 

area, an inspection is necessary before the move. Additionally, certifying 

documents are necessary during and after the move.

Preparing for Regulating Mobile Homes and Mobile Offices

To regulate mobile home or mobile officers movement from quarantine areas, 

PPQ and State personnel cooperate in the following activities:

1. Contacting all mobile home or mobile office haulers—all mobile home or 

mobile office haulers who move mobile homes from quarantine areas to 

noninfested areas are contacted and placed under CA. Entities moving 

mobile homes, mobile offices, or other mobile structures, if not under CA, 

must contact State or Federal officials prior to the move to make 

arrangements for inspection and disinfestation (if needed) prior to the 

move. Establishments routinely involved in such movement may be placed 

under CA.

Under the terms of the CAs, the CA holder only moves mobile homes or 

mobile offices from a quarantine area to noninfested areas after spongy 

moth inspections have been performed and documented. Under the CAs, 

the CA holder knows how to complete the inspections and how to handle 

the certifying documents.

2. Contacting the State Department of Transportation—in some States, 

permits are required to move a mobile home or mobile office or mobile 
Regulatory

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-27

office. Contact with the State transportation office allows access to copies 

of the permits facilitating making arrangements for inspections.

3. Contacting the mobile home park operators of mobile home parks or 

mobile office dealers—contacting the operators of mobile home parks and 

dealers can allow access to mobile home owners. Park operators or dealers 

can inform departing customers of the need for inspections and the 

inspection options available.

4. Contacting pesticide applicators—contacting individual pesticide 

applicators and organizations for pesticide applicators allows access to 

pesticide applicators who are interested in becoming qualified certified 

applicators (QCAs). QCAs are pesticide applicators who are allowed to 

inspect mobile homes or mobile offices under CAs.

Preinspection Procedure

Step 1: Before the move, contact the departing mobile home or mobile 

office owner

Explain the threat posed by spongy moth and the need to inspect departing 

mobile homes or mobile offices. Arrange the inspection. Before the inspection, 

ask the owner of the mobile home or mobile office or mobile office to:

Ensure the exteriors of the mobile home or mobile office and all 

associated items are accessible for inspection

Ensure the interior of the mobile home or mobile office is available for 

inspection, if necessary

Provide equipment and labor to ensure rapid access to wheel wells, 

brakes, undersides, and other inaccessible places on the day of inspection 

Remove all skirting

Step 2: Assemble all necessary tools and equipment

Binoculars to examine suspected, distant egg masses

Federal Certificates (Form 540)

Flashlight, preferably a small, high-intensity flashlight to illuminate 

crevices and other concealed areas

Ground cover to lie on when examining the undersides of the mobile 

homes

Hand mirror, preferably small and plastic-covered for safety to examine 

the undersides of the mobile homes

Ladder to examine the roof and areas under the eaves

Paint scraper (putty knife), preferably small and flexible to scrape off egg 

masses
Regulatory

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items

3-28 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

Probe, preferably thin and flexible, possibly a screwdriver to probe 

crevices and other concealed areas

Tools, such as Phillips head and standard screwdrivers to remove panels, 

if necessary

Wire brush (if a paint scraper is not used) to scrape off egg masses

Work clothes, such as coveralls, hardhat, and safety glasses

Inspection Conditions

Inspections require:

During blow-in and egg-laying seasons (between April and August), if 

possible, the inspection must occur on moving day; if not possible, the 

inspection must occur no more than 5 days prior to the move

Mobile home or mobile office and associated items must be accessible to 

the inspector

Weather conditions must be favorable

Safety and Inspections

To prevent injury when performing inspections:

Always check for venomous spiders or other wildlife that may pose a 

threat (snakes, stinging insects, etc.)

Always put blocks under the wheels of the mobile home or mobile office 

Always wear coveralls

Always wear a hardhat, gloves, and safety glasses

Beware of sharp edges, particularly flashing and siding edges. Never run 

your hand over edges that could be sharp

Never crawl under a mobile home or mobile office on jacks

Use a flashlight to illuminate a dark area before entering

Use mirrors, instead of entering tight corners

Inspection Procedure

Step 1: Examine the vegetation around the mobile home or mobile office 

for spongy moth life stages

If the vegetation in the surrounding area is infested, the mobile home or mobile 

office is likely also infested. However, even when there is no indication of a 

spongy moth population in the surrounding area, mobile home or mobile office 

infestation is still possible, therefore, all inspections must be exacting and 

complete.
Regulatory

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-29

Step 2: Examine the mobile home or mobile office and associated items 

for spongy moth life stages

Look in, on, and under everything. The examination must cover all exterior 

surfaces, including surfaces deep within crevices and other concealed areas. 

Use probes and flashlights to examine all concealed areas.

Examine lower surfaces very carefully. Egg-laying spongy moth females favor 

shelter under surfaces. Examine the underside of a mobile home or mobile 

office by crawling on a drop cloth, using a hand mirror, and/or probing with a 

screwdriver. Inspect with particular care:

Air conditioners (remove 

covers)

Mud flaps

Awnings (open if necessary) Patio room and any associated 

OHAs to be moved

Blocks on which the mobile 

home or mobile office rest

Propane gas tanks (including 

under the gas cap)

Chimney flashing and rain 

guard

Roof and eaves

Compressors Shutters (remove or probe 

behind as necessary)

Drainpipes Skirting

Slide out expansion unit (open 

if necessary)

Steps (including under treads)

Flashings Taillights

Fuse boxes, circuit breaker box, 

and/or electrical connections 

(open if necessary)

Underside of the mobile home, 

including floor boards, frame, 

and tubing

Hitch, including the underside 

of the I-beams and junctions

Vents

License plate (remove if 

necessary)

Wheels, including the inside of 

the rim and brake drums (if 

accessible)

Moldings (probe if necessary) Window sills (top and bottom)
Regulatory

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items

3-30 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02

When necessary, articles likely to harbor spongy moth must be disassembled 

prior to the inspection. The disassembly can be done by the owner of the 

mobile home, workers contracted by the owner of the mobile home, or the 

inspecting QCA.

Step 3: Treat the infestation

Refer to information on Treatments on page 3-30.

Step 4: Document the inspection

Refer to the information on Documentation for Mobile Home or Mobile Office 

Inspections on page 3-30.

Treatments

1. Physically removing egg masses—using a wire brush or paint scraper, 

remove an egg mass. Brush or scrape vigorously to remove all of the egg 

mass; however, do not brush or scrape so vigorously the finish is damaged.

2. Treating and physically removing egg masses—if you cannot be certain 

scraping will remove 100% of the egg mass, use the following protocol:

Apply Golden Pest Spray Oil to an egg mass using: 1) a sprayer with an 

adjustable nozzle; 2) a paint brush; or 3) a similar brush. Thoroughly 

saturate the egg masses to the point of runoff so the egg mass is 

“soaked.”

The Golden Pest Spray Oil rapidly penetrates, destroying even the 

innermost eggs. Then physically remove the egg mass using a wire 

brush or paint scraper. Vigorously brush or scrape as much of the egg 

mass as possible from the surface. Do not brush or scrape so vigorously 

the finish is damaged.

3. Spraying larvae with insecticide—when larvae are present, use an 

insecticide labeled for treating spongy moth larvae when removing by 

brush or paint scraper is not practical. Follow insecticide label instructions 

carefully.

Documentation for Mobile Home or Mobile Office Inspections

To ship mobile homes or mobile offices, two types of documents are 

acceptable:

NOTICE

Commonly overlooked sites for larvae and egg masses on mobile homes include:

• Chimney caps

• Flashing

• Lip of the lower wall

• Wheels, especially the inner sides
Regulatory

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items

03/2024-02 Spongy Moth Manual 3-31

1. Federal Certificate—issued by PPQ officers or State personnel after the 

mobile home or office has been inspected and all spongy moth life stages 

have been removed.

2. QCA document—issued by a QCA operating under a CA (refer to 

Qualified Certified Applicator Document on page I-1) after the mobile 

home has been inspected and all spongy moth life stages have been treated 

and removed.
Regulatory

Mobile Homes, Mobile Offices, and Associated Items

3-32 Spongy Moth Manual 03/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 4-1

Chapter

4 Slow the Spread Action/

Transition Area Activities

Contents

Introduction 4-1

Significance and History of the Slow the Spread Foundation and Action Area 

4-2

Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Regulatory Activities 4-2

Nurseries and Christmas Tree Plantations 4-2

Mills and Log Yards 4-3

Criteria for Adding Areas to the Quarantine 4-3

Trap Survey Results (Male Moths Alone) 4-3

Trap Survey and Other Survey Results 4-3

Egg Mass Survey Results 4-3

Updating the Quarantine 4-4

Introduction

The Slow the Spread (STS) Action/Transition Area occupies a band starting at 

approximately the outer edge of the quarantine area and extends outward 100 

kilometers to the noninfested area. The quarantine area is characterized by a 

virtually continuous spongy moth population that can periodically reach 

outbreak levels. The noninfested area lacks an established spongy moth 

population. Spongy moth populations in the STS Action/Transition Area are 

usually low level, discontinuous populations that do not typically reach 

outbreak levels.

Significance and History of the Slow the Spread Foundation and 

Action Area

The (STS Foundation is a nonprofit organization whose membership consists 

of those States along the leading edge of the spongy moth quarantine area. The 

purpose of the STS Foundation is to conduct activities designed to slow the 

natural spread of spongy moth out of the quarantine area in order to protect 

outlying areas from damage caused by the pest. This mission is accomplished 

through intensive survey activities, along with regulatory activities, eradication 

treatments, and population suppression treatments. These activities have
Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Activities

Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Regulatory Activities

4-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

resulted in more than a 60% reduction of natural spread rates from an average 

of 13 miles a year to an average of less than 5 miles a year.

The U.S. Forest Service (FS) provides 75% of the funding for the STS 

Foundation and its activities. The remaining funds are provided by member 

states, along with an APHIS grant for regulatory activities within the STS 

Action/Transition Area.

Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Regulatory Activities

To prevent the long-distance spread of spongy moth, APHIS policy is to 

prevent the establishment of isolated, outlying infestations. Usually, isolated 

infestations result from human-assisted dispersal of the pest through the 

moving infested articles. Articles likely to be infested are considered 

Regulated Articles. To prevent human-assisted spongy moth spread, APHIS 

and State program partners enforce quarantines on regulated articles when they 

are moved from the quarantine area to noninfested areas. Because logs and 

many other regulated articles tend to move fairly short distances from the 

quarantine area into the STS Action/Transition Area, regulatory activities 

within the STS Action/Transition Area are a vital component of the STS effort. 

These regulatory activities may include:

Entering into compliance agreements (CAs) with regulated establishments

Issuing Federal Certificates for moving regulated articles that have been 

fully mitigated

Monitoring spongy moth population levels at and near facilities receiving 

logs from the quarantine area

Inspecting nursery stock and other products to ensure pest freedom prior 

to movement

Conducting special operations, like weigh station blitzes

Nurseries and Christmas Tree Plantations

Nursery stock and plant products are a high-risk pathway for moving spongy 

moth. Because spongy moth populations may exist at low levels in the STS 

Action/Transition Area, nurseries in the STS Action/Transition Area, 

particularly those dealing in preferred hosts, must be inspected often enough to 

ensure infested material is not being shipped.

In addition to a visual examination of plant products and the growing plants, 

trapping should be done in the vicinity of the nursery to detect spongy moth.
Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Activities

Mills and Log Yards

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 4-3

For a more detailed description of how to inspect nurseries and Christmas tree 

plantations in the STS Action/Transition Area, refer to Inspecting Nurseries 

and Christmas Tree Plantations on page 3-7. Conducted trapping activities in 

coordination with the STS program and other relevant program partners to 

assure proper trapping densities and to avoid duplication of effort.

Mills and Log Yards

Mills and other facilities within the STS Action/Transition Area often receive 

logs originating within the quarantine area. These mills and facilities must

operate under CAs.

In addition, set two or more traps at each mill receiving logs from within the 

quarantine area, while also setting traps in the vicinity of the mills per normal 

STS Action/Transition Area protocols. These traps are intended to monitor 

spongy moth population levels at the receiving mill in accordance with APHIS 

policy for regulating receiving mills (refer to Protocols for Regulated Logs 

Originating in the Spongy Moth Quarantine Area on page G-1. For additional 

information about regulatory activities at mills, please refer to the appropriate 

section(s) of the Regulatory chapter.

Criteria for Adding Areas to the Quarantine

The decision to add an area to the quarantine is based on the detection of a 

sufficient number of male moths and/or other life stages supporting a State and 

Federal consensus the area is generally infested.

Trap Survey Results (Male Moths Alone)

When more than 10 male moths are caught in the majority of traps placed 

throughout the area for 2 consecutive years, consider adding the infested area 

to the quarantine area. Milk carton traps are frequently used for STS/transition 

area survey work due to its much larger capacity compared to a delta trap.

Trap Survey and Other Survey Results

When adult trapping captures multiple male moths and other survey methods 

detect alternate life stages, consider adding the infested area to the quarantine 

area.

Egg Mass Survey Results

When multiple egg masses are detected as the result of an egg mass survey, 

consider adding the area to the quarantine area.
Slow the Spread Action/Transition Area Activities

Criteria for Adding Areas to the Quarantine

4-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Updating the Quarantine

After the decision to add an area to the quarantine has been reached, the 

APHIS Spongy Moth National Policy Manager will work with appropriate 

personnel to add the area to the Federal quarantine following existing 

protocols.
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 5-1

Chapter

5

Public Outreach

Contents

Introduction 5-1

Background 5-2

The Pest 5-3

Survey 5-3

Regulatory 5-4

Control 5-4

What the Public Can Do 5-5

General Outreach Activities and Initiatives 5-5

Spongy moth program materials are available free of charge to support 

outreach and education. 5-6

Public Meetings or Informational Open Houses 5-6

Media Relations 5-7

Regulated Industries 5-7

Outreach Opportunities and Suggestions 5-7

Spongy Moth Program Publications 5-8

Introduction

The United States Department of Agriculture–Animal and Plant Health 

Inspection Service–Plant Protection and Quarantine (USDA–APHIS–PPQ) is 

involved in the Spongy Moth Program to:

Detect isolated infestations at low population levels

Eradicate isolated infestations on State and private lands

Prevent the human-assisted spongy moth spread to noninfested areas

The original spongy moth regulations were first published in 1912 during the 

tenure of Agriculture Secretary James Wilson. Over a century later, the 

regulations continue to help safeguard trees and forests from this devastating 

pest.

Outreach is fundamental to the core activities of the Spongy Moth Program, 

providing an essential and unifying thread across the survey, regulatory, and 

control actions. Wide sweeping and broad spongy moth outreach can be big 

and bold or small and subtle, but all communication facilitates:
Public Outreach

Background

5-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Increased awareness of the pest and the spongy moth program

Enhanced understanding of the pest and spongy moth program

Public and stakeholder support for the spongy moth program

Compliance with spongy moth regulations and quarantine requirements

While survey, regulatory, and control may be designated as the responsibility 

of a select few, outreach is a universal job function. We all play a role in the 

spongy moth outreach mission.

Spongy moth key messages align program partners and support delivering 

accurate and consistent messages to stakeholders, regulated industries, and the 

public.

Background

The spongy moth is native to Europe and first arrived in the United States in 

Massachusetts in 1869.

Spongy moth is one of the most destructive pests of trees and shrubs to 

ever be introduced into the United States. Spongy moth caterpillars have 

voracious appetites for more than 300 species of trees and shrubs, posing 

a danger to North America’s forests.

The first Federal spongy moth quarantines were enacted in 1912 in New 

England and today, nearly half of the lower 48 States in the east are 

partially or entirely quarantined for the pest.

Spongy moth can spread on its own and when people unknowingly move 

an adult moth, larva, or egg mass. Due to our mobile society, the majority 

of new spongy moth infestations are associated with moving outdoor 

household articles (OHAs) by the public.

Spongy moth caterpillars defoliate trees, leaving trees vulnerable to 

diseases and other pests that can eventually kill the tree. Early detection is 

critical to limiting spongy moth spread.

Spongy moth prefers approximately 150 primary hosts, but will feed on 

more than 300 species of tree and shrubs.
Public Outreach

The Pest

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 5-3

The Pest

Spongy moth egg masses are covered with buff or yellowish hair from the 

abdomen of the female and average about 11⁄2” long and about 3⁄4” wide.

Newly hatched spongy moth caterpillars are black and hairy. As they 

mature, caterpillars develop a mottled yellow to gray pattern with tufts of 

bristle-like hairs and a pattern of five pairs of blue dots and six pairs of 

red dots along their back.

Male and female adult moths look very different; a male moth is about 3⁄4” 

long, brown in color with a darker brown pattern on their wings. Females 

are larger and nearly white with dark saw-toothed patterns on their wings. 

Female spongy moth cannot fly.

When spongy moth population density reaches high levels, the caterpillars 

consume large quantities of foliage resulting in partial or complete forest 

defoliation.

Spongy moth prefers approximately 150 primary hosts including aspen, 

birch, cedar, cottonwood, larch, oak, poplar, willow, and fruit trees.

Survey

Two USDA agencies, APHIS and the U.S. Forest Service (FS), partner 

with various State agencies to conduct spongy moth surveys.

APHIS is responsible for surveying in areas not known to be infested to 

detect new spongy moth infestations. To monitor the pest population and 

initiate control efforts, the FS concentrates its spongy moth efforts along 

the front line of the known infested areas.

The goal of surveying is to find new spongy moth infestations early, 

before populations can establish, grow, and spread. Public cooperation in 

surveys is vitally important to ensure a full and complete survey.

Spongy moth traps are green, orange, or brown and are made of plasticcoated cardboard. The “delta” trap looks like a miniature pup tent with 

openings on each end (Figure 2-2 on page 2-8). The other version of the 

trap is taller and larger, looks like a milk carton, and is named the “milk 

carton” trap. Milk carton traps are not used in APHIS-funded survey 

work.

Traps are baited with a lure to attract the male moth. Once the male moth 

enters a trap, it is either caught in the sticky lining (delta trap) or killed by 

a small, insecticidal strip (milk carton).

The spongy moth traps pose no risk to people, pets, or wildlife.
Public Outreach

Regulatory

5-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Regulatory

USDA regulates the movement of potentially infested material or articles 

from spongy moth quarantine areas to other areas of the United States 

(refer to the spongy moth quarantine map).

Spongy moth-regulated articles include: Christmas trees; logs; posts; 

pulpwood; bark and bark products; nursery stock; mobile homes; and 

OHAs such as lawn furniture, yard equipment, and outdoor toys.

To help prevent the further spread of spongy moth, USDA requires 

homeowners to inspect OHAs and remove any adult spongy moth, pupae, 

larvae, or egg masses they find prior to moving from a quarantine area to 

a noninfested area.

Public and industry compliance with the spongy moth regulations is based 

on: 1) awareness of the existence of the regulations; 2) knowledge about 

the contents of the regulations; and 3) cooperation with the regulations.

Control

The USDA continues to fight spongy moth spread. Today, through the 

Slow the Spread (STS) Program USDA is slowing the spread along the 

infestation’s leading edge and eradicating outbreaks outside currently 

infested areas.

The Spongy Moth Program uses several strategies and tools to control the 

pest.

Mass trapping strategically places pheromone spongy moth traps (to 

attract male moths) in a dense grid pattern across the treatment area. 

The objective of mass trapping is to capture male spongy moths before 

they have a chance to locate and mate with the flightless female 

moths. The objective of mating disruption is to saturate the treatment 

area with enough pheromone sources to confuse the male moths and 

thereby prevent them from finding and mating with female moths. 

This can be accomplished by either ground or aerial application of the 

pheromone Disparlure.

Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk) is a biopesticide (natural product) 

used to target spongy moth larvae. The word biopesticide is a 

combination of the words “biological and pesticide.” In most cases, 

Btk is aerially applied, however in small spongy moth infestations 

(less than 5 acres), Btk may be applied using ground equipment. 

When spongy moth larvae eat vegetation treated with Btk, a toxin is 

released in their stomachs. This toxin eventually starves or poisons the 

larvae.
Public Outreach

What the Public Can Do

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 5-5

Gypchek, a spongy moth nucleopolyhedrosis virus (NPV) product, is 

also used to target larvae. NPV is applied with aerial or ground 

application equipment. Spongy moth larvae eat the virus-coated leaves 

and become infected. These larvae die and decompose leaving virus 

particles for additional larvae to eat and also become infected. 

Gypchek infects and kills only spongy moth larvae. This product is 

used in areas where other moths and butterflies may be rare or 

endangered.

There are also a number of traditional pesticides labeled for spongy 

moth and are occasionally used for control.

What the Public Can Do

Know the quarantines in your area and learn to leave spongy moth and 

other pests behind, especially if you’re relocating to a new area (refer to 

the “Your Move Spongy Moth Free” website. 

If you live outside of a spongy moth quarantine area, report findings of 

spongy moth egg masses and other life stages on trees, lawn furniture, 

fences, walls, or elsewhere to Federal or State agriculture officials.

Become familiar with and cooperate with all restrictions imposed because 

of a spongy moth detection.

Allow authorized agricultural workers access to property to install and 

inspect spongy moth monitoring traps.

General Outreach Activities and Initiatives

Refer to online Agency resources via Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) 

(HungryPests.com, Facebook and Twitter) to facilitate communication 

and to provide access to current/breaking information regarding survey, 

detection, quarantine areas, etc.

Develop and staff a toll-free spongy moth hotline to address State-specific 

regulations and messages.

Identify and distribute informational spongy moth materials to prevent 

duplication of effort and ensure message consistency.

Keep the media informed regarding program activities, reference single 

program point-of- contact, and online resources.

Keep local officials, local government, community leaders, tribal leaders, 

etc. informed about the program and solicit their participation in 

advancing program messages.

Periodically meet with program staff for feedback to identify problems, 

concerns, etc. Engage and encourage open dialogue.
Public Outreach

Public Meetings or Informational Open Houses

5-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Request/create specialized communication vehicles if needed and order 

(or print) available USDA-provided items.

If needed, develop and arrange for news releases to mainstream, 

electronic, and alternative media.

Spongy moth program materials are available free of charge to support 

outreach and education.

Public Meetings or Informational Open Houses

Public meetings or informational open houses take place when necessary and/

or appropriate. These meetings address public concerns, communicate the 

program strategy and actions, and help to garner community support and 

compliance. Program personnel work collectively to coordinate scheduling, 

secure suitable facilities, ensure delivery of adequate notification, and provide 

collateral materials (handouts, fact sheets, informational posters, etc.) for the 

meeting.

Craft plain language letters or announcements regarding time, date, 

location, and purpose of public meeting

If mailing, use tax rolls for names and addresses (Note: tax rolls apply to 

owners, not necessarily residents)

Use online communication

Allow adequate lead time between the announcement and event

In resort areas, allow for absentee homeowner issues

Adhere to schedule; start on time/end on time

Keep presentation short and simple; allow ample time for Q & A

Public venues may include additional participation from:

Political representatives and community leaders familiar with local 

concerns and recognized by the local community

State and Federal program representatives who can respond to questions 

about spongy moth, surveys, quarantine restrictions, and control 

measures

Representatives from cooperating State universities who can answer 

questions about spongy moth biology, its host range, and potential U.S. 

impact

County, city, and local cooperators who can respond to questions about 

their roles
Public Outreach

Media Relations

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 5-7

Media Relations

Notify the APHIS–PPQ and LPA staff regarding Spongy Moth Program 

initiatives (survey, quarantine, control). Coordinate national media calls (from 

high-profile media outlets) with APHIS–LPA. To avoid conflicting and 

confusing statements, process all outgoing information through a single 

designated spokesperson. It is recommended that one primary media 

spokesperson be designated by the State cooperator to work with the spongy 

moth LPA spokesperson. Spokespersons should thoroughly understand all 

aspects of the program, such as survey, regulatory, and management activities.

Regulated Industries

Spongy moth is one of the most destructive pests of trees and shrubs in the 

United States impacting trade and commerce across a number of industries. 

Affected industries include:

Christmas tree industry

Forest products industry

Moving industry

Nursery and landscape industry

Outreach Opportunities and Suggestions

Quarantine Areas

Create a spongy moth communication kit and/or presentation for use or 

lending

Include one key message at the bottom of your email signature line – 

replace monthly

Increase awareness about communication tools on the HungryPests.com

site—reach out to teachers, camp counselors, home school organizations, 

scout leaders, after-school program leaders, etc.

Leverage notable national recognitions or celebrations such as Earth Day, 

Arbor Day, Tree Check Month, etc. to engage target audiences

Nonquarantine Areas

Ask recreational areas and tourist destinations to include a spongy moth 

alert on their website
Public Outreach

Spongy Moth Program Publications

5-8 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Contact local business’ human resource departments to solicit their 

support in educating newly hired employees, relocating to the area, about 

spongy moth

Partner with municipal public works departments to educate them about 

spongy moth and other invasive forest pests

Solicit real estate agencies to include links to online spongy moth 

resources on their websites and provide key messages to their staff

Spongy Moth Program Publications

Your Move Spongy Moth-Free Website

Factsheet/Checklist: It’s the Law: Before Moving, Check for the Spongy 

Moth
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 6-1

Chapter

6

Eradication Treatments

Contents

Purpose 6-1

Evaluating the Need for Eradication Treatment 6-2

Review Season’s Trapping Data 6-2

Internal Staff Discussions 6-3

Cooperator Involvement 6-3

Mapping 6-4

External Plan Review 6-4

Preliminary Proposal 6-4

Outreach and Stakeholder Interaction 6-4

Federal Financial Assistance 6-5

Environmental Review 6-5

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 6-5

Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Section 7 6-6

Clean Water Act 6-7

State-Level Equivalent Laws and Regulations 6-8

Operation Implementation 6-8

Safety 6-8

Operational Checklists 6-8

Legal 6-9

Bids for Contracted Treatments 6-9

Logistics 6-9

Security 6-10

Other Considerations 6-10

Operations 6-10

After Action Reviews 6-11

Post-Treatment Delimiting 6-11

Purpose

The purpose of APHIS’s eradication activities is to prevent spongy moth 

establishment in a pest-free area. Eradicating isolated, outlying spongy moth 

populations is critical in containing and mitigating human-assisted spread of 

and damage caused by the pest. Eradication is the complete extermination of a 

pest population. USDA policy is to detect and eradicate spongy moth 

populations found outside the generally infested area and the Slow the Spread 

(STS) action area.
Eradication Treatments

Evaluating the Need for Eradication Treatment

6-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Other types of pest population control activities occur as part of the overall 

State/Federal strategy to address spongy moth in the United States. In 

particular, within the generally infested area and the STS action area, 

treatments are applied with the objective of suppressing or reducing, but not

eliminating, spongy moth population levels.

In keeping with the 1990 USDA Departmental Policy 5600-01 and the 2009 

Interagency Gypsy Moth Memorandum of Understanding between APHIS and 

the USDA Forest Service (Forest Service Agreement No. 09-SU-11132546-

079, APHIS will cooperatively fund eradicating isolated infestations if the 

isolated infestations are: 1) 640 acres or smaller; 2) on nonFederal land; and 

3) not adjacent to Federal lands.

Suppression efforts in the infested areas where eradication is no longer feasible 

are the responsibility of the USDA–FS and individual States. APHIS does not

fund efforts to control spongy moth by suppression.

Evaluating the Need for Eradication Treatment

Review Season’s Trapping Data

At the end of each spongy moth survey season, review trap data to identify 

sites where spongy moth was detected. Sites with multiple catches in a single 

trap or traps with spongy moth catches in close proximity to one another are 

sites requiring particular attention. Such sites may indicate reproducing 

populations and the site should be revisited to search for further evidence of a 

reproducing population. Additional evidence of a reproducing population may 

include the presence of nonadult life stages or the results of delimiting surveys 

as referenced in the survey chapter. Nonadult life stages are typically 

confirmed through the discovery of one or more egg masses or a pupal exuvia 

(aka “pupal cases”). If evidence of a reproducing population is found, propose 

to label the site as an eradication site. A proposal based on repeated trap 

catches will usually be predicated on how many moths are caught over 

multiple seasons and how close together (geographically) the catches are.

When the initial internal discussions result in a decision to pursue conducting 

an eradication treatment, national Spongy Moth Program management must be 

informed and consulted.
Eradication Treatments

Evaluating the Need for Eradication Treatment

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 6-3

Internal Staff Discussions

In addition to the review of trap data, formulating an eradication proposal 

should include internal discussions by the lead agency. The lead agency is the 

agency responsible for carrying out the eradication treatment. Initial internal 

discussions should include all relevant factors including, but not limited to, 

topography of the proposed treatment site, land use patterns in the area, 

population density (rural, urban, etc.), and relevant social, political, and 

demographic factors. This initial assessment should be based on the best 

information available.

The initial internal discussions should also consider factors determining 

whether proposed eradication treatments would be applied aerially or from the 

ground. Important factors to consider include, but may not be limited to:

Availability of equipment and personnel properly trained in its use 

(whether in-house or through contractors)

Number and types of potential safety hazards (e.g., radio transmission 

towers or low-hanging power lines)

Public perceptions and acceptance of different treatment methods

Relative costs involved

Size of the proposed treatment block

Type of terrain within the block

Outreach needs should also be discussed. During preliminary outreach 

discussions, give consideration to all the factors mentioned above and any 

additional concerns that would need to be addressed, such as any nonEnglishspeaking demographic groups in the area.

Cooperator Involvement

Cooperators are the entities necessary for planning and executing an 

eradication treatment. Cooperators are not always State, Federal, or Tribal 

government agencies. Cooperator roles may include developing budgets and 

securing funding, conducting environmental reviews, assisting with outreach, 

ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and performing treatment 

operations. Relationships with some cooperators may already exist, however, it 

is likely that new cooperators will need to be identified and engaged as well. 

Some examples of other cooperator partnerships are Tribes that may be 

affected by the treatment, public agencies owning land within the treatment 

area, and organizations positioned to conduct outreach to unique demographic 

groups (e.g., homeless and foreign-language populations). If pesticide use is 

anticipated, engaging State and/or local health agencies is vital.
Eradication Treatments

Outreach and Stakeholder Interaction

6-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Mapping

Accurate maps are required to properly plan and conduct an eradication 

treatment. Needed maps will include:

Locations of adult moths and other life stages detected

Locations of concern such as schools, health care facilities, and 

environmentally sensitive areas 

Locations of safety hazards for treatment applicators

Proposed and, when decided, actual treatment boundaries

Geographic information system (GIS) technologies can also be used to provide 

other types of information such as interactive maps allowing an individual to 

enter their address to determine if their property is within a treatment area.

External Plan Review

Once the workplan for an eradication treatment has been drafted, having that 

plan reviewed by an external group of people familiar with spongy moth 

eradication activities may be beneficial. This external review may not be 

formal or a matter of record, however, this review process can provide 

suggestions for plan improvements, be used to bolster public support and 

acceptance of the plan, and assist in defending any possible legal challenges.

Preliminary Proposal

A preliminary eradication proposal should be ready for announcement by midautumn or early winter. This announcement should include a statement of 

findings (e.g., trapping results), the need for action, a preferred alternative 

under the spongy moth 1996 Final Environmental Impact Statement FEIS and 

2012 Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS), a map of the 

proposed eradication site(s), and likely timing. One should bear in mind that all 

proposals are preliminary or draft until a decision document such as aFinding 

of No Significant Impact (FONSI) has been signed.

Outreach and Stakeholder Interaction

Public support for any eradication project is vital. Use outreach as an 

opportunity to educate, inform, and build trust and cooperation with affected 

stakeholders.

A well thought out outreach and communication plan is an important 

component of any eradication project. An inadequate outreach and 

communication plan may lead to confusion and speculation among 

stakeholders resulting in a lack of public support and cooperation for the 

project. Program partners involved in planning and implementing the 
Eradication Treatments

Federal Financial Assistance

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 6-5

eradication project should develop and adhere to a set of core messages in 

order to avoid cross-messaging or confusion. Outreach efforts (refer to Public 

Outreach on page 5-1) should be an integral part of the spongy moth 

eradication project and be initiated during the early stages of the planning 

process.

Federal Financial Assistance

Once a preliminary proposal has been developed, adequate funding for the 

proposed treatment must be secured. The preliminary proposal can serve as the 

basis for the development of a workplan and financial plan for the proposed 

treatment. The workplan and financial plan must detail the need for the 

project, including how it aligns with USDA strategic goals and priorities. The 

workplan should also describe the work to be done, the project partners 

involved, and the expected results and benefits. The financial plan must detail 

the expenses that will be incurred and any State cost-share contributions. Once 

the workplan and accompanying financial plan have been drafted they should 

be submitted to the State Plant Health Director (SPHD) for the State in 

question or, if the treatment block is larger than 640 acres, to the appropriate 

FS official for review and obligation of the corresponding Federal funds. This 

process often takes several weeks to several months and is contingent on the 

availability of Federal funds.

Environmental Review

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

All Federally proposed spongy moth eradication activities or those proposed in 

cooperation with a Federal agency must comply with NEPA. NEPA, enacted in 

1970, requires Federal agencies to assess the environmental impacts of their 

proposed actions prior to making a final decision on their implementation. 

APHIS’s Spongy Moth Program uses Final and Supplemental Environmental 

Impact Statements (FEIS and FSEIS) and Environmental Assessments (EA) to 

meet NEPA requirements.

Final and Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement

In 1995, the USDA issued the FEIS, “Gypsy Moth Management in the United 

States: a cooperative approach,” which describes and evaluates methods of 

spongy moth control available for use in USDA cooperative eradication 

programs. In 2012, the USDA issued a FSEIS supplement to the 1995 edition, 

“Gypsy moth management in the United States: a cooperative approach: final 

supplemental environmental impact statement.” The 2012 FSEIS included the 

evaluation of additional spongy moth treatments not included in the 1995 

FEIS. 
Eradication Treatments

Environmental Review

6-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Environmental Assessment

The EA provides the basic background information necessary for site-specific 

analysis of the potential environmental effects resulting from the proposed 

spongy moth eradication project. The EA, sometimes prepared by the State 

cooperator and other times prepared by APHIS, should include:

Environmental impacts of the proposed action

Listing of the agencies and persons consulted

Need for the proposed eradication

Treatment alternatives

Preparing the EA must be tiered (linked) to the FEIS and the FSEIS in 

accordance with the Council on Environmental Quality regulations for 

implementing the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (40 

CFR 1502.20 and 40 CFR 1508.28). Upon completion, the EA copies are made 

available for public comment by posting notices in local news outlets and 

copies at libraries and agency websites. A 30-day comment period is typical. 

For more detailed guidelines on preparing the EA, refer to Environmental 

Assessment on page E-1.

Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)

After reviewing the completed EA and the public comments, if APHIS 

determines the proposed actions will not have a significant environmental 

impact, the agency will issue a FONSI (refer to Finding of No Significant 

Impact on page E-8).

Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Section 7

ESA requires all actions proposed by Federal agencies and their cooperators to 

protect and conserve listed endangered and threatened species. Section 7 of the 

ESA titled “Interagency Cooperation” directs Federal agencies to consult with 

the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the National Marine Fisheries 

Service (NMFS) for any actions that may affect listed species. The results of 

the consultation should be included in a section of the EA.
Eradication Treatments

Environmental Review

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 6-7

Informal Consultation

During early stages of the eradication treatment planning process, the lead 

Federal agency or cooperator requests an informal consultation with USFWS 

and NMFS to determine if any listed species may occur within the proposed 

treatment area and what effects the proposed actions may have on those 

species. The request for interagency consultation should begin sometime in 

November or early December of the year prior to the proposed treatments. If, 

during the consultation, it is determined that the proposed actions are “not 

likely to affect” listed species, the consultation is concluded and the proposal is 

allowed to move forward. A letter of concurrence from USFWS and NMFS is 

not required. However, if it is determined that the proposed treatments “may 

affect” a listed species, a written biological assessment (BA) or biological 

evaluation (BE) will be required to help make a final determination on the 

effects of the proposed actions.

Biological Assessment or Biological Evaluation

A BAor BE is a written analysis documenting the agencies’ conclusions on the 

effects of the proposed treatments. For the purposes of the discussion on 

spongy moth eradication, the BA and BE will be treated as one. Section 7 

requires the BA to make one of three determinations: 1) no effect; 2) may 

affect, but not likely to adversely affect; or 3) may affect and is likely to 

adversely affect listed species. If the findings of the BA concludes the 

proposed actions “may effect, but not likely to adversely affect,” a letter of 

concurrence from USWFS and NMFS to document compliance with Section 7 

is required before moving forward with the proposed treatment.

Section 7 Formal Consultation

If the BA concludes the proposed eradication treatment “may affect and is 

likely to adversely affect” listed species, the proposing agency must request a 

formal consultation with USFW and/or NMFS to determine if the proposed 

action will jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species. Upon 

completion of the formal consultation, USFW/NMFS will issue a written 

opinion.

Clean Water Act

If an eradication site includes “Waters of the United States” (refer to Definition 

of “Waters of the United States” Under the Clean Water Act (CWA)), 

programmatic coverage is needed under the National Pollutant Discharge 

Elimination System (NPDES).
Eradication Treatments

Operation Implementation

6-8 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

NPDES states: the NPDES permitting program regulates discharges from 

pesticide applications consistent with section 402 of the CWA. Point source 

discharges of biological pesticides and chemical pesticides that leave a residue 

into waters of the United States are required to comply with NPDES 

requirements. EPA and the States issue Pesticide General Permits to offer 

coverage for pesticide operators. Activities not eligible for coverage under the 

Pesticide General Permit may be eligible for coverage under an individual 

permit.

State-Level Equivalent Laws and Regulations

Eradication treatment project coordinators are responsible for compliance with 

State-level environmental laws and regulations. For a list of environmental 

regulatory agencies for U.S. States and territories, refer to Health and 

Environmental Agencies of U.S. States and Territories.

Operation Implementation

Safety

At the onset of the proposed eradication project, the project leader must 

designate a safety officer or take on the role themselves. A safety plan is 

necessary and can be modeled via online resources if one is already available. 

Fundamentals of a safety plan include:

Accident reporting structure

Locating emergency medical resources

Preparedness measures linked to preventing accidents

Operational Checklists

With a safety plan as the first checklist item, divide the checklist into before 

treatment, during treatment, and after treatment sections. The checklist should 

consider all possible elements of the various resource needs, operational 

activities, and followup actions for the treatment. These elements include, but 

are not limited to:

After action review

Comment periods

Decision documents

Funding requirements

NOTICE

Failure to comply with the FEIS, FSEIS, NEPA, ESA, CWA, or any other State and 

Federal regulations may result in an injunction or lawsuit.
Eradication Treatments

Operation Implementation

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 6-9

Ground/aerial logistics

Legal

Outreach

Permitting requirements

Regulatory requirements

Legal

Every aspect of a treatment operation may be challenged in court. The project 

leader should involve their organization’s legal representative from the 

beginning of the process. Bear in mind, public disclosure laws vary across 

States and all communications may be subject to public disclosure.

Bids for Contracted Treatments

Treatments are usually performed by a third-party contractor. The lead agency 

must create the contact specifications for the treatment contract and work with 

their contracting officer to solicit bids. Contract elements should include, but 

are not limited to:

Application equipment

Application rates

Product to be applied

Size and boundaries of the area to be treated

Specialized navigational capabilities

The bid solicitation and contracting process can take considerable time and 

much of it may be outside of the contracting agency’s control.

Logistics

Hotels (if needed)

Identifying:

Location(s) for product storage

Location(s) for mixing spray solutions and filling application 

equipment

Placing spray cards

Positioning field observers and other staff

Spill response plans and equipment

In-field communication plan

Location of operational headquarters
Eradication Treatments

Operations

6-10 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Real-time outreach and notification to people requesting spray-day 

notifications

Spongy moth phenological modeling to assist with treatment timing

Using the Incident Command System (ICS) and/or processes, if necessary 

Vehicles

Weather monitoring to assist with treatment application timing

Security

Ensuring the safety and security of the public and program personnel is critical 

at every step of the process—from open house/public meeting events to 

staging areas (airports, helipads), to treatment areas (neighborhood streets) 

themselves. Private security or deputized law enforcement officers may be 

used at key areas to protect both program personnel and the public. Local law 

enforcement should be notified operations are planned before every treatment, 

whether ground or aerial. The Federal Aviation Association (FAA) should be 

notified when aerial treatments are planned. Drone aircraft are a potential 

threat to flight operations and appropriate precautions should be taken.

Other Considerations

Every eradication treatment project is unique and there may be other project 

elements that also require planning and execution, such as State-level 

emergency declarations to conduct aerial spraying to Federal permits for flying 

near bald eagle nests. This may also include budgeting for legal costs for 

possible legal challenges.

Operations

Some of the planning and preparation steps described above will move into the 

implementation or operational phase while other steps are still in process. For 

example, public engagement activities often begin shortly after the 

determining the need for an eradication treatment and prior to completing the 

needed environmental documentation. Ultimately, these planning and 

preparation steps lead to the actual application of the chosen treatment product. 

Timing of the treatment application(s) is dependent on several factors, 

primarily the phenology of the insect and the life stage a given treatment 

product targets.
Eradication Treatments

After Action Reviews

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual 6-11

After Action Reviews

To assess what went well and what can be improved upon in the future, 

operations should be reviewed following each eradication treatment and at the 

end of the treatment period. After Action Reviews (AAR) typically begin with 

a brief description of the actions taken or responses being reviewed. It should 

include the intent of the review and what benefits it can provide in improving 

future processes and outcomes. AARs can be conducted electronically or in the 

traditional paper format. An example of an AAR can be found in Appendix K

on page K-1.

Post-Treatment Delimiting

After treatments have been applied it is critical to monitor the success (or 

failure) of a eradication treatment by setting a delimiting array of traps at and 

around the treatment site during the year the treatment was applied and for no 

fewer than 2 additional years. Delimiting surveys should continue until 3 

consecutive years with no trap catches or other signs of a lingering infestation 

remain. Detailed information on planning and conducting delimiting surveys is 

available in the Survey chapter under Delimiting Survey on page 2-16.
Eradication Treatments

Post-Treatment Delimiting

6-12 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual A-1

Appendix

A Appendix A

How to Assemble Traps

Contents

Materials for Assembling Delta Traps A-1

Procedures for Assembling Delta Traps A-1

Materials for Assembling Delta Traps

Delta trap

Disparlure1

 dispenser (string or strip)

Paper clips

Stapler

Staples, wire, hammer, nails, or string for hanging the trap

Procedures for Assembling Delta Traps

Step 1: Staple the lure to the “X” on the nonsticky side

Step 2: Pull the trap open; pull sticky sides away from each other

Step 3: Fold the trap into a triangle

Fold top flap over and staple or paper clip together

1 The spongy moth lures remain active for, at most, 3 years from the date of manufacture (typically 

identified on each package) and if stored in the freezer.

Figure A-1 Example of Step 2 for Assembling Delta Traps
Appendix A

Procedures for Assembling Delta Traps

A-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Step 4: Fold in corners at both ends

Figure A-2 Example of Step 3 for Assembling Delta Traps

Figure A-3 Example of Step 4 for Assembling Delta Traps
Appendix A

Procedures for Assembling Delta Traps

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual A-3

Step 5: Fold in sides at both ends

Step 6: Hang or staple trap in place (4 to 5 feet off the ground)

Figure A-4 Example of Step 5 for Assembling Delta Traps

Figure A-5 Example of Step 6 for Assembling Delta Traps
Appendix A

Procedures for Assembling Delta Traps

A-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual B-1

Appendix

B Appendix B

Spongy Moth Data Collection

Contents

Introduction B-1

Survey Data, Essential Fields B-1

Adding Custom Fields B-3

Spongy Moth Regulatory Activities B-3

Quality Assurance B-4

Introduction

Program data may be collected using pen and paper or in digital format. 

Regardless of the equipment and method used to collect data, all survey data 

must be entered into the Integrated Plant Health Information System (IPHIS) 

by December 15 of a given year. Compliance agreements (CA) should also be 

entered into IPHIS, as described below.

Survey Data, Essential Fields

Table B-1 lists the essential fields that must be collected during survey 

activities and the potential domains that can populate those fields. Other data 

fields can be collected if useful at the State or local office level.
Appendix B

Survey Data, Essential Fields

B-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Table B-1 Essential Fields

Field name: Description: Domain:

Global ID System-assigned record ID n/a, system-assigned

Install Date Date and time of trap installation n/a, user-assigned

Location Name Name of general location of one or more traps n/a, user-assigned

Site Name Name of specific site for one trap in a location n/a, user-assigned

Comments Notes about trap placement or how to access a site 

(optional)

n/a, user-assigned

Trap Status Indicates whether trap site is currently in use  Active

 Inactive

Survey Name Survey name in IPHIS all-in-one templates  Delimiting

 Detection (Inland)

 Port-Waterway Inside Quarantine

 Port-Waterway Outside Quarantine

Target Pest Pest targeted at this trap site  FSMC

 SM

Survey Category Survey category as outlined in program guidelines, 

related to risk and purpose

 SM Category 1 (High Risk)

 SM Category 2 (Moderate Risk)

 SM Category 3 (Low Risk)

 SM Category S (Special Site)

 Risk Model Survey Design

 SM Visual

 FSMC Visual

 FSMC Trapping

Treatment Survey timing in relation to treatment (optional)  Pretreatment

 Post-treatment

Trap Density Prescribed number of traps per square mile for this 

site (optional)

 1/4 sq mi

 1/sq mi

 4/sq mi

 9/sq mi

 16/sq mi

 25/sq mi

 36/sq mi

 other

Port Name If a port environs survey, name of port n/a, user-assigned

State State in which site is located n/a, derived through post-processing

County County in which site is located n/a, derived through post-processing

created_user Account name of user who created record n/a, system-assigned

created_date Date and time of record creation n/a, system-assigned

last_edited_user Account name of last user to edit record n/a, system-assigned

last_edited_date Date and time of last edit n/a, system-assigned
Appendix B

Adding Custom Fields

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual B-3

Adding Custom Fields

Because the essential fields above will not meet everyone’s needs, individual 

offices may add custom fields.

Please let your SPHD/Field Operations Spongy Moth Manager know of 

any added custom fields so it can be evaluated for inclusion in the 

national system template for future years. If it works for one office, it may 

be useful for another.

Keep in mind that adding custom fields can affect reporting. To prevent 

issues in reviewing data, avoid adding custom fields similar to existing 

fields. If you need changes to an existing field, let your SPHD/Field 

Operations Spongy Moth Manager know.

Spongy Moth Regulatory Activities

Enter all spongy moth compliance agreements into IPHIS as soon as possible. 

The basic agreement is customizable. In addition, record all compliance 

inspections in IPHIS. Instructions are available in IPHIS Message 

Forums>Spongy Moth>Spongy Moth Regulatory Data.

Table B-2 Survey Activities

Field Name Description Domain

Global ID System-assigned record ID n/a, system-assigned

TrapGuid System-assigned foreign key to Trap Sites 

table

n/a, system-assigned

Activity Date Date and time of activity n/a, user-assigned

Activity Type of activity performed  MONITOR

 REPLACE TRAP

 REPLACE TRAP (MISSING)

 REMOVE

 REMOVE (MISSING)

 INACCESSIBLE

Comments Unusual or special circumstances about this 

activity (optional)

n/a, user-assigned

created_user Account name of user who created record n/a, system-assigned

created_date Date and time of record creation n/a, system-assigned

last_edited_user Account name of last user to edit record n/a, system-assigned

last_edited_date Date and time of last edit n/a, system-assigned
Appendix B

Quality Assurance

B-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Quality Assurance

All offices are expected to review for accuracy the data inputted into IPHIS. 

This is essential to ensure the data in the system accurately portrays field 

activities so reports are correct, because these will be used for future program 

review and planning.
3/2024-02 Gypsy Moth Program Manual C-1

Appendix

C Appendix C

Spongy Moth Molecular Methods and 

Submission Guidelines

Contents

Submitting Suspected Spongy Moth for Molecular Diagnostics C-1

Submission Deadline C-2

Specimen Shipment Requirements C-2

Spongy Moth Molecular Diagnostics C-3

Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay C-3

Secondary Analysis of Significant Regulatory Samples C-5

DNA Barcoding C-5

Result Reporting C-6

Port Interceptions and Specimens of Regulatory Significance C-6

Specimens Inside the Federal Quarantine C-7

PPQ Form 391, Specimens for Determination C-8

Excel Template for Spongy Moth Trap Submission C-9

Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with Target-Specific 

Amplification Plots C-9

Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with TargetSpecific Amplification Plots C-10

This document has been reviewed and approved by the Spongy Moth 

Cross-Functional Working Group.

Submitting Suspected Spongy Moth for Molecular Diagnostics

Submit specimens suspected of being spongy moth, Lymantria dispar, to the 

Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ), Science and Technology (S&T), Forest 

Pest Methods Laboratory (FPML, formerly known as the Otis Pest Survey, 

Detection, and Exclusion Laboratory) for molecular diagnostics.

All specimens collected outside the Federal quarantine or at a port of entry and 

a subsample of specimens collected inside the quarantine are analyzed. Send 

each trap submitted to the laboratory, regardless of quarantine status, with PPQ 

Form 391 (refer to Item A, Figure C-1). Alternatively, if sending a large 

quantity (>10) of specimens, send an Excel file reflecting the fields listed in 

Item B (Figure C-2) to submitting an individual form. Submit forms and 

tracking information via email.
Appendix C

Submitting Suspected Spongy Moth for Molecular Diagnostics

C-2 Gypsy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Submission Deadline

Traps should be submitted as soon as collected. Samples collected from inside

the quarantine are accepted for analysis until November 30th of each survey 

year.

DNA degrades quickly when exposed to ambient conditions, therefore, it is 

critical for samples to be collected regularly, stored in a freezer, and submitted 

for diagnostics as soon as possible. Otherwise, specimen condition can be 

negatively impacted leading to diagnostic assay failure and the inability to 

identify specimens.

Prompt submission is also essential to ensure participating States receive 

survey results promptly and to ensure no delays in generating the Lymantria 

dispar Risk Model.

Ship specimens via next-day delivery for arrival Tuesday through Friday to:

Forest Pest Methods Laboratory (FPML)

Spongy Moth Diagnostics

1398 W. Truck Rd

Buzzards Bay, MA 02542

Email submission form(s) and shipment tracking information to: 

Lymantria.diagnostics@usda.gov

All inquiries regarding spongy moth diagnostics can be directed to the above 

email.

Specimen Shipment Requirements

Egg Masses

Permit to move live pests is required in all egg mass shipments

Request permit by emailing group inbox address (listed above)

Ship individual egg masses separately—do not mix egg masses

Do not treat egg masses with oil

Ship egg masses dry in a sealed secondary container

For port interceptions, provide the corresponding Agricultural Risk 

Management System (ARM) diagnostic request form either with the 

shipment or via email

For domestic samples, label each egg mass with the collection number 

corresponding to PPQ Form 391
Appendix C

Spongy Moth Molecular Diagnostics

3/2024-02 Gypsy Moth Program Manual C-3

Delta Traps

Do not disassemble the traps or remove moths from the trap

Package traps to avoid crushing during shipment

Label each trap with the collection number corresponding to PPQ Form 

391 or the Excel template

Milk Carton Traps

Empty milk carton traps into a paper bag—plastic bags retain moisture 

and promote DNA degradation

Label paper bag with the collection number corresponding to PPQ Form 

391 or the Excel template

Spongy Moth Molecular Diagnostics

Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay

Real-time PCR is an advanced technique monitoring the amplification of a 

target DNA molecule during the DNA replication process. A probe binds to the 

target CNA and emits a fluorescence captured by a sensor on the real-time 

PCR machine. In other words, if the target DNA sequence is present, the 

sensor will detect more light as more DNA copies are replicated. The high 

sensitivity of real-time PCR may enable detection of a target organism in the 

presence of only a few DNA copies. The terms “real-time PCR” and “qPCR” 

are interchangeable.

Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar japonica, and Lymantria umbrosa

are members of the flighted spongy moth complex (FSMC) and are of 

regulatory concern and cannot reliably be distinguished morphologically from 

Lymantria dispar dispar. Two real-time PCR assays are used to distinguish 

these four targets on a genetic level: 1) Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth 

Diagnostic Assay; and its simplified version, 2) Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR 

Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay.

Processing Timelines

Upon arrival, specimens will be processed using the priority system below.
Appendix C

Spongy Moth Molecular Diagnostics

C-4 Gypsy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Mother Diagnostic Assay

The Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay includes four 

subassays to identify either Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar 

japonica, Lymantria umbrose, or Lymantria dispar dispar based on differences 

in their mitochondrial genes. The four subassays are referred to as: 1) AGM; 2) 

Ldaj; 3) Lda; and 4) Ldd.

The combined results from the four subassays allow identification of the four 

target moths because each target is characterized by a different amplification 

plot (refer to Table C-2 and Figure C-3), which summarizes positive (S-shaped 

curve) and negative (flat line) subassay results. A specimen that does not

generate a positive amplification or generates an amplification plot 

inconsistent with the four targets is either not a spongy moth species or failed 

to amplify due to DNA degradation.

Table C-1 Priority System for Processing Specimens for Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth 

Diagnostic Assay

Specimen origin: Priority: Estimated processing time:

Port interceptions1 Urgent 24 hours2

Specimens from outside quarantine Prompt 24 to 72 hours

Specimens from inside quarantine Routine Reported at the end of survey season

1 Includes specimens collected on maritime vessels by CBP personnel.

2 Specimens received Friday cannot be processed until the following Monday.

Table C-2 Diagnostic Results For the Four Subassays Using Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth 

Diagnostic Assay

AGM: Ldaj: Lda: Ldd: Final determination:

Positive Positive Positive Positive Lymantria dispar asiatica

Positive Positive Negative Positive Lymantria dispar japonica

Positive Negative Negative Positive Lymantria umbrosa

Negative Positive Negative Positive Lymantria dispar dispar
Appendix C

Secondary Analysis of Significant Regulatory Samples

3/2024-02 Gypsy Moth Program Manual C-5

Dual-Probe-Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay

The Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay was optimized 

to produce a simplified assay, the Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth 

Diagnostic Assay, which only includes two subassays: 1) AGM; and 2) Ldd

(refer to Figure C-4). Unlike the standard version, the dual-probe assay detects 

Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar japonica, and Lymantria umbrosa 

from the background of Lymantria dispar. It does not distinguish between the 

former three targets. The dual-probe assay is specifically designed for 

analyzing samples trapped during the domestic survey. Given the rare domestic 

occurrences of FSMC, the dual-probe assay can screen samples more 

efficiently than the standard assay. Samples with positive results for the AGM 

subassay are subsequently analyzed by the Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy 

Moth Diagnostic Assay for subspecies identification. Samples of regulatory 

significance (e.g., port interceptions) are directly processed with the standard 

assay.

Secondary Analysis of Significant Regulatory Samples

Specimens of regulatory significance that fail the real-time PCR assays can be 

analyzed using DNA barcoding. Specimens received from inside the 

quarantine that fail the assay will not be DNA barcoded, except upon direct 

request. The processing timeline for DNA barcoding is dependent on the 

turnaround time of the sequencing company, but can typically be expected in 1 

to 3 weeks. If DNA barcoding fails, the specimen may be reextracted and 

reprocessed, which will take an additional 1 to 3 weeks.

DNA Barcoding

DNA barcoding uses the mitochondrial COI gene to distinguish different 

species. The technique relies on obtaining the unknown specimen’s COI 

sequence and comparing it to sequences of voucher species deposited in the 

Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD).

Table C-3 Diagnostic Results For the Two Subassays Using Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth 

Diagnostic Assay

AGM: Ldd: Final determination:

Positive Positive Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar japonica, or Lymantria 

umbrosa

Negative Positive Lymantria dispar dispar
Appendix C

Result Reporting

C-6 Gypsy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Because the Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assays detect spongy 

moth (provided the DNA quality is sufficient), there are three potential DNA 

barcoding outcomes:

1. Species- or genus-level identification of a nonspongy moth specimen.

2. Inconclusive identification resulting from the specimen failing to match 

any known reference DNA barcode.

3. Unknown identity due to DNA sequencing failure.

Result Reporting

Results are reported in accordance with the established timelines based on 

specimen origin and the guidelines detailed below.

Port Interceptions and Specimens of Regulatory Significance

Final determinations based on the Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic 

Assay are reported to the National Identification Service (NIS) “Urgents” 

email group. According to the agreed-upon communication protocol, results 

provided to NIS are copied to the following individuals: State Plant Health 

Director (SPHD); State Plant Regulatory Official (SPRO); original submitter, 

Forest Pest Methods Laboratory (FPML) Director; National Policy Manager; 

and National Operations Manager (NOM). DNA barcoding results are 

provided by forwarding the original correspondence and listing the final 

determination based on DNA barcoding in red. Molecular determinations are 

also updated by a molecular diagnostician in the ARM database (when 

applicable).

Results Templates

Diagnostic results are reported using the template below:

Lab ID:

Interception # or Collection #:

Life Stage:

Date Collected:

Date Received:

Determination:

Determination Method:

Viability: all egg masses are assumed to be likely viable unless the sample 

consists of all empty shells or if there are no eggs present in the sample

Attachment: PPQ Form 391 for domestic specimens or associated diagnostic 

request for port interception specimens.

DNA barcoding results are reported using the template below:
Appendix C

Specimens Inside the Federal Quarantine

3/2024-02 Gypsy Moth Program Manual C-7

Updated DNA Barcoding Result:

Lab ID:

Interception # or Collection #:

Life Stage:

Date Collected:

Date Received:

Determination:

Determination Method: DNA barcoding

Viability: all egg masses are assumed to be likely viable unless the sample 

consists of all empty shells or if there are no eggs present in the sample.

Attachment: PPQ Form 391 for domestic specimens or associated diagnostic 

request for port interception specimens.

Specimens Inside the Federal Quarantine

Real-Time Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay results are reported by State to the 

SPHD, SPRO, original submitter, FPML director, National Policy Manager, 

and NOM once all processing of specimens from inside the quarantine is 

completed.

Results are returned in an Excel file and include the following:

Laboratory ID # City

Collection # Latitude

Date received Longitude

Date collected Specimen life stage

State Final determination

County Determination method
Appendix C

PPQ Form 391, Specimens for Determination

C-8 Gypsy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

PPQ Form 391, Specimens for Determination

Figure C-1 Example of PPQ Form 391, Specimens for Determination
Appendix C

Excel Template for Spongy Moth Trap Submission

3/2024-02 Gypsy Moth Program Manual C-9

Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with 

Target-Specific Amplification Plots

Each target moth is characterized by a different amplification plot that includes 

positive and negative results from the four subassays. A positive subassay 

generates an S-shaped curve, whereas a negative result generates a nearly flat 

line.

Excel Template for Spongy Moth Trap Submission

To request this Excel template, email Lymantria.diagnostics@usda.gov.

Figure C-2 Excel Template for Spongy Moth Trap Submission

NOTICE

A small number of Lymantria dispar dispar may produce positive amplification in the 

Lda subassay.
Appendix C

Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with Target-Specific Amplification Plots

C-10 Gypsy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with 

Target-Specific Amplification Plots

Each target moth is characterized by a different amplification plot that includes 

positive and negative results from the two subassays.

Figure C-3 Standard Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with Target-Specific Amplification 

Plots
Appendix C

Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with Target-Specific Amplification Plots

3/2024-02 Gypsy Moth Program Manual C-11

Figure C-4 Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with Target-Specific 

Amplification Plots
Appendix C

Dual-Probe Real-Time PCR Spongy Moth Diagnostic Assay with Target-Specific Amplification Plots

C-12 Gypsy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual D-1

Appendix

D Appendix D

Compliance Agreements

PPQ Form 519, Compliance Agreement

Each Compliance Agreement (CA) is documented on PPQ Form 519—

Compliance Agreement (refer to an example of PPQ Form 519, Compliance 

Agreement on page D-1).

The agreement section on PPQ Form 519 may reference attached information. 

The attached information may be adapted to meet local conditions.

The Spongy Moth Program uses a standard CA template covering the majority 

of regulated activities and articles. On those rare occasions when a unique 

circumstance arises requiring a custom CA, consult program management for 

guidance and approval.
Appendix D

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

D-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

Figure D-1 Spongy Moth Compliance Agreement (page 1)
Appendix D

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual D-3

Figure D-1 Spongy Moth Compliance Agreement (page 2)
Appendix D

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

D-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Figure D-1 Spongy Moth Compliance Agreement (page 3)
Appendix D

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual D-5

Figure D-1 Spongy Moth Compliance Agreement (page 4)
Appendix D

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

D-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Figure D-1 Spongy Moth Compliance Agreement (page 5)
Appendix D

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual D-7

Figure D-1 Spongy Moth Compliance Agreement (page 6)
Appendix D

Standard Compliance Agreement Template

D-8 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual E-1

Appendix

E Appendix E

Guidelines for Environmental Documents

Contents

Environmental Assessment E-1

Suggested Outline of a Spongy Moth EA E-1

Finding of No Significant Impact E-8

FONSI Examples E-9

Environmental Assessment

The Environmental Assessment (EA) on the spongy moth should be linked to 

the detailed Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). This allows the 

reader to refer to the FEIS as needed, and allows USDA–APHIS–PPQ to cite 

the FEIS instead of repeating information and data contained within the FEIS.

The EA must describe the potential effects of the eradication program on 

human health and the environment on a site-specific basis. In general, the 

document includes why the proposed action is needed, the alternatives to the 

proposed action, and the environmental effects of the proposed action and its 

alternative. The site-specific EA should be as concise as possible, but still 

contain all the information necessary for the responsible official to make an 

informed decision.

For recent EAs and Findings of No Significant Impact (FONSIs), which may 

be used as examples in developing these documents, refer to Spongy Moth 

Programs Environmental Assessments.

The following section provides an outline of information and analyses that 

may be included in an EA. This format is a suggestion based on the structure of 

recent EAs and may be modified if a different structure is preferred or better 

suits the proposed treatment program.

Suggested Outline of a Spongy Moth EA

Title page with:

1. Introduction

2. Purpose and Need

A. Public Outreach

B. Authorizing Laws

C. Decisions to be Made
Appendix E

Environmental Assessment

E-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

D. Responsible Officials

3. Alternatives

A. No Action

B. Proposed Action

4. Affected Environment

A. Natural Resources

B. Biological Resources

C. Human Health and Safety

5. Environmental Consequences

A. No Action

B. Proposed Action

6. Other Issues

A. Cumulative Impacts

B. Threatened and Endangered Species

C. Historic Preservation

D. Environmental Justice

7. List of Preparers

8. List of Agencies and Persons Consulted

9. References

10. Appendices

Title Page

1. Title page should state that the document is an EA, or, in the case of a 

treatment proposed for a location that already has an EA on file, a 

Supplemental Environmental Assessment (SEA)

2. Location refers to the county and State where treatment will occur

3. List the agencies involved (lead agency first); “agencies” refers to the 

USDA–APHIS–PPQ and the State

4. Date of treatment—month in which treatment is expected to take place

Introduction

1. Spongy moth pest status (why it needs to be controlled in the treatment 

area)

2. Overview of USDA–APHIS–PPQ spongy moth eradication program
Appendix E

Environmental Assessment

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual E-3

3. Overview of spongy moth life cycle

4. History of current outbreak (when detected, where detected, number 

detected) 

Purpose and Need

Explain the purpose for the action to be taken (e.g., eradication rather than 

slow the spread (STS) or keeping damage below an economic threshold). 

Explain the need for the proposed action. Reasons for action should include 

any relevant biological, economic, and health factors such as: value of the host 

plants; loss of recreational value of shade trees; adverse effects on other 

species in the treatment area, etc.

Briefly include the following:

1. Overview of the proposed site-specific treatment program

2. History of spongy moth eradication/control in that specific State, especially 

in that treatment block

3. If other treatment blocks are located in the same geographic region, 

mention them with a brief description

4. Reference to the 1995 Final EIS and 2012 Supplemental EIS, and that the 

EA is linked to these documents

5. Statement about the EA being prepared pursuant to NEPA

Public Outreach. 

1. Describe public involvement, such as notification letters, open houses, 

newspaper notices, etc.

2. Describe precautionary measures that will be taken such as poison control 

hotlines, emergency facilities, and law enforcement involvement.

Authorizing Laws. Through several Federal laws, the USDA has broad 

discretionary, statutory authority to conduct spongy moth management 

activities. List and briefly describe each, as concisely as possible. Refer to a 

recent spongy moth EA for suggested phrasing.

Applicable laws include:

1990 Farm Bill (P.L. 101-624)—reauthorizes the basic charter of the 

Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978

Cooperation with State Agencies in Administration and Enforcement of 

Certain Federal Laws (7 U.S.C. section 450)—works with the Plant 

Protection Act (PPA) allowing USDA to conduct spongy moth treatments

Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 (P.L. 95-313)—authorizes 

Federal and State cooperation in forest pest and disease management
Appendix E

Environmental Assessment

E-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Endangered Species Act (ESA), Section 7—prohibits Federal actions 

from jeopardizing federally listed threatened, endangered, or candidate 

species, or adversely affecting critical habitat of these species

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) of 1947 (as 

amended)—requires insecticides used in the United States to be 

registered by the EPA

List State statutes authorizing the treatment program

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969—requires detailed 

environmental analysis of any proposed Federal action that may affect the 

human environment

National Historical Preservation Act, Section 106 and 36 CFR part 800: 

Protection of Historic Properties—requires that the State Historic 

Preservation Officer be consulted about proposed treatment activities

Plant Protection Act of 2000 (7 U.S.C. section 7701)—authorizes USDA 

to conduct treatments for spongy moth control

Decisions To Be Made. 

1. Briefly discuss the interaction of the USDA and State, and the 

responsibilities of each.

2. Specific decisions are:

A. Should there be a cooperative treatment program, and if so, what type?

B. Is the proposed action likely to have any significant impacts requiring 

further analysis in an EIS if treatments occur?

Responsible Officials. 

Supervisory official (and contact information) for USDA–APHIS–PPQ

Supervisory official (and contact information) for the State

Alternatives

Briefly describe the proposed alternative in the introduction to this chapter.

No Action. 

1. No Action alternative is the alternative that continues the present course of 

action.

2. No Action means USDA–APHIS–PPQ would not cooperate with the State 

in the proposed treatment program.

3. Briefly discuss why this is not the preferred alternative (e.g., spongy moth 

populations and defoliation will increase).
Appendix E

Environmental Assessment

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual E-5

Proposed Alternative. 

1. Proposed Alternative (sometimes called the “Preferred Alternative”) is the 

alternative USDA–APHIS–PPQ determines best meets the purpose and 

need; e.g., best eradicates spongy moth in the treatment area.

2. Describe the proposed treatment alternative and mention USDA–APHIS–

PPQ will cooperate with the State to accomplish it.

Affected Environment

Briefly describe the site-specific environment based on the terminology of the 

spongy moth FEIS. This chapter typically contains sections described 

immediately below.

Natural Resources. Briefly describe the physical location of the proposed 

treatment, including the land type, soils, water, and air resources (e.g., if the 

treatment block is near a watershed, near agricultural land, or soils do not drain 

well).

Biological Resources. Briefly describe the biological organisms in the proposed 

treatment block, including any sensitive plants and animals. Include a 

description of any threatened or endangered plants and animals. Mention any 

organisms likely to be nontarget species of the treatment—i.e., any plants or 

animals that might potentially be affected by the proposed treatment. For 

spongy moth, that might include any lepidopteran larvae undergoing larval 

development at the time of the proposed treatment, particularly if they are 

threatened or endangered.

Human Health and Safety. Briefly discuss the demographics of the area in and 

near the treatment block:

Are there any Federal, State, or tribal lands located inside the treatment 

block?

Are there any schools, hospitals, parks, or other places where people 

might gather?

At the time of treatment, is there potential for people to be physically 

exposed?

How many people reside there?

Is the area residential or is there some industrial development?

Environmental Consequences

Mention that both alternatives may have potential environmental 

consequences
Appendix E

Environmental Assessment

E-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Potential environmental consequences will determine whether the 

proposed alternative will be selected; prepare this section with careful 

analysis

No Action. Discuss the potential environmental consequences if the No Action 

Alternative is selected (i.e., if the proposed treatment does not take place). 

Depending on the situation, this might include an increase in spongy moth 

population in the treatment block, an increase in tree defoliation in the 

treatment block, and the loss of recreational resources, such as camping and 

hiking sites.

Proposed Action. Discuss the potential environmental consequences if the 

proposed treatment does take place. Depending on the situation, this might 

include protecting recreational wooded areas, pesticide drift, pesticide residues 

in bodies of water, and potentially exposed immunologically sensitive 

individuals.

Other Issues

Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts refers to an aggregate of impacts to 

human health and the environment over time, and include reasonably 

foreseeable future actions. These may include impacts from previous spongy 

moth management actions, pesticide impacts from other nonspongy moth 

programs, and impacts to the local environment from other actions that 

incrementally increase the impact of any program actions.

Threatened and Endangered Species. 

Are there any listed threatened and endangered species or designated 

critical habitat within the treatment block? If so, cite them. If there are no

threatened and endangered species or designated critical habitat, indicate 

there are none.

If there are threatened or endangered species within the treatment block, 

USDA–APHIS generally prepares a Biological Assessment (BA) 

analyzing the potential jeopardy to the species that might be posed by the 

proposed treatment. Consult ERAS at Riverdale, MD, for assistance with 

preparing a BA. When completed, submit the BA to the U.S. Fish & 

Wildlife Service (USFWS) for concurrence or denial.

Historical Preservation. Are there any historic properties in or near the treatment 

block? If so, provide the number of properties and any potential effect of the 

proposed treatment on them. If there are no historic properties, indicate there 

are none. This generally requires consultation with the State historic 

preservation office.
Appendix E

Environmental Assessment

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual E-7

Executive Orders. 

12898: Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority 

Populations and Low-Income Populations

Are there any minority and/or low-income populations living inside the 

treatment area? If so, what are the potential effects of the proposed 

treatment program on them? Are the potential impacts to these populations 

disproportionately greater than those potential impacts to the general 

population? Potential issues might include access to media sources 

announcing the proposed treatment or ethnic populations for whom 

English is not their first language. Cite any standard operating procedures 

(SOPs) or mitigations reducing these potential effects.

13045: Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and 

Safety Risks

Does the proposed treatment pose a potential risk to environmental health 

and safety of the children living in the treatment area? Are the potential 

impacts to children living in the treatment area disproportionately higher 

than the impacts to other subgroups of the population living in this area? 

E.g., consider the location of child care centers or schools in the area. Cite 

any SOPs or mitigations reducing these potential effects.

List of Preparers

List the names of those who worked on the EA, including the APHIS Plant 

Health Director, the representative of the State department of agriculture, and 

other cooperators (one to two pages). For each preparer, list their qualifications 

(professional training, years of experience, area of expertise) and responsibility 

for a particular part of the EA.

Agencies and Persons Consulted

List the names and addresses of any agencies and persons who provided input 

to the EA, including:

1. State department of agriculture

2. USDA–AHIS–PPQ offices in the region of treatment and in Riverdale, MD

3. If consulted, the State historic preservation office, State department of 

health, and State department of natural resources

References

List any references used in the EA. This includes reports from other agencies 

such as EPA and USFWS, as well as publications from scientific journals. 

Refer to a recent EA for style.
Appendix E

Finding of No Significant Impact

E-8 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Appendices

Include items in appendices that are specific to the treatment plan:

Letters to and from Federal and/or State agencies

Map of treatment block

Public scoping notices—refer to the spongy moth FEIS, Appendix C—

Public Involvement and Issues for more detailed information

Treatment product labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

These items will vary depending on the proposed treatment and the judgment 

of the individuals responsible for the treatment. This allows for flexibility in 

preparing this section.

Finding of No Significant Impact

The purpose of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) is to provide a 

concise statement indicating the proposed action will not have a significant 

effect on human health or the environment. To justify the finding, a FONSI 

cites analyses in the EA and analyses incorporated from the associated 

programmatic EIS by reference. The FONSI is essentially a one- to two-page 

summary of the EA results.

Contents of an spongy moth eradication program FONSI include the 

following:

1. Treatment block location

2. Estimated date of treatment

3. Treatment block size

4. Proposed treatment alternative

5. Description of public outreach and summary of public comments

6. Statement of any threatened and endangered species in treatment block

7. Statement of any effect on children, low-income populations, or minorities

8. Concluding statement indicating the treatment program will not pose a 

significant risk to human health or the environment

To develop a FONSI for an spongy moth eradication program, use the FONSI 

outline on page E-9. This outline is only a suggested outline for a FONSI, as 

with the EA, the FONSI format may be modified.
Appendix E

Finding of No Significant Impact

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual E-9

FONSI Examples

The following pages contain examples of a generic FONSI and a completed 

FONSI.

Figure E-1 Example of a Generic FONSI
Appendix E

Finding of No Significant Impact

E-10 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Figure E-2 Example of a Completed FONSI (page 1 of 2)
Appendix E

Finding of No Significant Impact

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual E-11

Figure E-2 Example of a Completed FONSI (page 2 of 2)
Appendix E

Finding of No Significant Impact

E-12 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual F-1

Appendix

F Appendix F

Procedures for Composting Bark

Contents

Procedure for Composting Bark in a Trench F-1

Procedure for Composting Bark in a Pile F-2

Procedure for Composting Bark in a Trench

Step 1: Start a compost pile

Start a compost pile of at least 200 cubic yards in one end of a trench.

Step 2: Leave compost pile undisturbed

Allow the compost pile to remain undisturbed until the temperature reaches 

120 °F (49 °C) for at least 4 continuous days. In situations in which 120 °F (49 

°C) cannot be maintained for at least 4 continuous days, the compost pile shall 

remain undisturbed until the temperature reaches 100 oF (37.8 °C) for at least 6 

continuous days.

Step 3: Remove compost pile’s outer layer

Using a front-end loader or a bulldozer, remove the outer layer of the compost 

pile to a depth of 3 feet.

Step 4: Start a second compost pile

Down the trench, start a second compost pile using the recently removed cover 

material as a core.

Step 5: Move the core material

Move the core material from the first compost pile and place on the second 

compost pile as a cover at least 3 feet deep (leave some composted material to 

serve as “inoculum” for subsequent piles).

NOTICE

1. The material on the outer side of the compost pile must be free of both eggs that 

could hatch and larvae. 

2. The compost pile must be as far away from host material as possible.
Appendix F

Procedure for Composting Bark in a Pile

F-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Step 6: Leave second compost pile undisturbed

Allow the second compost pile to remain undisturbed until the temperature 

reaches 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 4 continuous days. In situations in which 

120 °F (49 °C) cannot be maintained for at least 4 continuous days, the 

second compost pile shall remain undisturbed until the temperature reaches 

100 °F (37.8 °C) for at least 6 continuous days.

Step 7: Remove second compost pile

Remove the second compost pile and use as fully composted material.

Step 8: Repeat procedure

This procedure will allow continuous operation. After the first compost pile is 

“turned” to become the second compost pile, a new “first” compost pile can be 

started.

Procedure for Composting Bark in a Pile

Step 1: Start a compost pile

Start a compost pile of at least 200 cubic yards.

Step 2: Leave compost pile undisturbed

Allow the compost pile to remain undisturbed until the temperature reaches 

120 °F (49 °C) for at least 4 continuous days. In situations in which 120 °F (49 

°C) cannot be maintained for at least 4 continuous days, the compost pile shall 

remain undisturbed until the temperature reaches 100 oF (37.8 °C) for at least 6 

continuous days.

Step 3: Remove compost pile’s outer layer

Using a front-end loader or a bulldozer, remove the outer layer of the compost 

pile to a depth of 3 feet.

Step 4: Start a second compost pile

Start a second compost pile using the recently removed cover material as a 

core.

Step 5: Move the core material

Move the core material from the first compost pile and place on the second 

compost pile as a cover at least 3 feet deep (leave some composted material to 

serve as “inoculum” for subsequent piles).

NOTICE

1. The material on the outer side of the compost pile must be free of both eggs that 

could hatch and larvae. 

2. The compost pile must be as far away from host material as possible.
Appendix F

Procedure for Composting Bark in a Pile

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual F-3

Step 6: Leave second compost pile undisturbed

Allow the second compost pile to remain undisturbed until the temperature 

reaches 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 4 continuous days. In situations in which 

120 °F (49 °C) cannot be maintained for at least 4 continuous days, the 

second compost pile shall remain undisturbed until the temperature reaches 

100 °F (37.8 °C) for at least 6 continuous days.

Step 7: Remove the second compost pile

Remove the second compost pile and use as fully composted material.

Step 8: Repeat procedure

This procedure will allow continuous operation. After the first compost pile is 

“turned” to become the second compost pile, a new “first” compost pile can be 

started.Spongy Moth Program Manual
Appendix F

Procedure for Composting Bark in a Pile

F-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual G-1

Appendix

G Appendix G

Protocols for Regulated Logs Originating in the 

Spongy Moth Quarantine Area

Contents

Executive Summary G-1

Background G-2

Specific Policies and Protocols G-3

Federal Regulatory Actions G-3

Survey Protocols G-3

Data Capture and Management G-3

Data Analysis G-4

Compliance Agreements G-4

Costs G-5

Recommended Remedial Actions G-5

Description of Space-Time Cluster Analysis G-6

Basis for Statistical Analysis G-6

Procedure G-6

Automation G-6

Deliverable G-6

Executive Summary

The Spongy Moth Program has adopted a standard-based approach to 

processing requirements for regulated logs moving to receiving mills or other 

facilities outside the quarantine area. The standard requires the number of 

moths caught in traps at each receiving mill or facility be statistically similar to 

trap catch numbers in the surrounding area. Spongy moth population levels at 

and around each regulated facility are monitored on an annual basis through a 

statistical analysis of each year’s trapping data. Should this analysis indicate 

elevated trap catch numbers have occurred at a particular mill, a series of 

recommended remedial actions designed to bring the facility back into 

conformance with the standard has been developed.
Appendix G

Background

G-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Background

APHIS’s Spongy Moth Program has adopted a standard-based approach for 

how logs moving interstate from quarantine areas to processing facilities 

outside the quarantine area are regulated. Historically, moving logs was subject 

to a series of Federal requirements, including moving under an Accurate 

Statement or Limited Permit and certain processing conditions at the 

processing facility. Movement requirements are found in the Code of Federal 

Regulations (CFR) (7 CFR 301. 45-4), while processing requirements were 

housed in the APHIS Spongy Moth Program Manual. However, over time, 

State to State variances in processing conditions arose and industry practices 

changed. An analysis of numbers of spongy moths caught in traps near 

regulated mills outside the quarantine area indicates moving logs from the 

quarantine area to primary processing facilities does not typically result in 

elevated spongy moth population levels in the vicinity of those facilities. 

Adopting this standard-based approach accommodates these changes and is in 

keeping with Executive Orders to minimize regulatory burdens on the public 

while still maintaining high levels of protection to America’s agricultural and 

natural resources.

Under this standard-based approach, spongy moth population levels are 

monitored at receiving mills and other facilities and compared to population 

levels in the surrounding environment. Each year, population levels in the 

immediate vicinity of the facilities receiving regulated logs are compared to 

population levels in the surrounding environment. The standard APHIS has 

adopted requires population levels in the immediate vicinity of each mill not

be statistically elevated when compared to population levels in the surrounding 

environment. APHIS continues to require that log movement occur under a 

properly issued Limited Permit or Accurate Statement. Receiving mills and 

other facilities and their suppliers must enter into Federal compliance 

agreements (CA) for log movement. Each State determines appropriate 

requirements for processing regulated logs once they are at the processing 

facility and enters into State CAs with receiving facilities detailing those 

requirements and any other applicable conditions deemed necessary.

Beginning in June, 2014 an interagency working group convened to develop 

specific recommendations on the steps and actions necessary to implement the 

standard-based approach to regulating logs moving from the quarantine area to 

mills and other receiving facilities for processing.

This document details the working group’s findings. Working group members 

included representatives from the major stakeholder groups that would be 

affected, including the National Plant Board (NPB), the U.S. Forest Service 

(FS), the Spongy Moth Slow the Spread (STS) Foundation, and APHIS.
Appendix G

Specific Policies and Protocols

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual G-3

Specific Policies and Protocols

Federal Regulatory Actions

APHIS’s spongy moth regulations serve as the foundational policy guidance 

for program activities. These regulations can be found in Title 7 of the CFR (7 

CFR 301-45). Of particular relevance to this document are the regulations 

governing “Conditions of Movement of Regulated Articles” (7 CFR 301. 45-

4). This section of the Federal spongy moth regulations contains only one 

requirement for moving logs out of the quarantine area—they must move 

under a properly issued certificate or Limited Permit. Alternatively, the logs 

can move under an Accurate Statement after being inspected by trained 

personnel operating under a CA and found to be free of spongy moth life 

stages. This requirement is retained in the standard-based approach.

Survey Protocols

The standard-based approach to regulating logs is rooted in spongy moth traps 

being calibrated to pest population levels in the vicinity of a trap. In order for 

the standard-based approach to work, traps must be placed at and in the area 

surrounding primary processing facilities receiving regulated logs. In areas 

where significant levels of trapping already occur, set two traps at the facility 

itself—standard trapping densities are sufficient to monitor moth population 

levels in the surrounding area. In areas where trapping densities are low, set 

two traps at the regulated facility, along with a small number of additional traps 

in the surrounding area to serve as a basis for comparison of population levels 

at the mill and in the surrounding environment.

For mills in areas covered by STS or State survey (areas with a 

background spongy moth population) follow current trapping protocols 

and densities

Identify all mills receiving regulated logs

Place 2 (or more) traps in host material at the perimeter of each regulated 

mill

Place 4 to 10 traps around mills in areas with no known background 

spongy moth population

Do not place traps closer than 2 kilometers from each mill

Trap array should extend out 10 kilometers from each mill

Data Capture and Management

Properly capturing the outcomes from the survey effort is instrumental to 

performing an analysis of trap catch numbers at regulated primary processing 

facilities.
Appendix G

Specific Policies and Protocols

G-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

All trap catch data is entered into either Integrated Plant Health 

Information System (IPHIS) or the STS database

All trap placement data is entered into either IPHIS or the STS database

Appropriate existing notations within national spongy moth survey and 

STS survey data capture protocols should be used to designate traps 

placed at regulated mill sites

Data Analysis

To determine a receiving primary processor is in conformance with standard of 

not exhibiting elevated population levels at the mill site, an annual, transparent, 

and robust analysis of trap catch numbers is necessary. A space-time cluster 

technique developed by PPQ’s Science and Technology (S&T) makes 

maximum use of existing trapping protocols while allowing each mill’s 

performance to be individually examined.

Description of the analytic technique is provided in each year’s report and 

in Description of Space-Time Cluster Analysis on page G-6

Each regulated mill site is analyzed separately using the space-time 

cluster technique

If two or more mills are in very close proximity to one another, they 

are combined into a single “mill feature” for the analysis

APHIS analyzes trap catch data annually (each winter)

Compliance Agreements

As noted in the Background section of this document, State-to-State variation 

exists in processing requirements for regulated logs. This variety of 

requirements is reflected in the current inventory of compliance agreements 

(CAs) held by the Spongy Moth Program. Under the standard-based approach, 

Federal CAs contain standard language relating to moving logs out of the 

quarantine area. Individual States remain free to establish or maintain 

processing requirements for those logs once they arrive at the mill site. State 

requirements for processing are detailed in a State-issued CA or in a clearly 

delineated section of a joint State-Federal CA.

Federal CAs are limited to the continued need for a Limited Permit or 

Accurate Statement for interstate movement out of the quarantine area 

along with associated site and paperwork access requirements

Joint CAs may be issued, but activities governed under Federal authority 

(first bullet in this list) should be clearly delineated from those regulated 

under State authority (third bullet in this list)

State CAs stipulate what processing requirements are necessary at 

receiving mills (e.g., processing times, duration of high-risk period, 
Appendix G

Specific Policies and Protocols

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual G-5

distance from surrounding host vegetation) along with associated site and 

paperwork access requirements

Costs

Mills found to be out of conformance with the standard bears the costs 

associated with any necessary remedial actions.

Recommended Remedial Actions

In anticipation of the occasional instance in which a given primary processor is 

found to be exhibiting statistically significant higher trap catch numbers at the 

mill when compared to trap catch numbers from the surrounding area, and 

thus, out of conformance with the standard, provide a list of remedial actions 

to bring the mill back into conformance. There may be instances in which 

nonconformant trap catch numbers are not the result of the mill’s activities; 

For this reason, it is strongly recommend that any follow-up actions begin with 

a visit to the nonconformant mill and identify any contributing factors. 

Additional remedial actions are predicated on the findings from that initial mill 

visit. Specific remedial actions are determined by the State in which that mill is 

located, in consultation with APHIS and mill management.

1. Conduct an initial visit and inspection of nonconforming facility

A. Review practices and protocols at the facility to identify any potential 

contributing factors

B. Assess background spongy moth population levels in the area

2. Based on findings of the initial visit, potential actions might include (but 

are not limited to):

A. Conducting a delimiting survey around the facility the following year

B. Shortening the processing timeframe during the high-risk egg hatch 

period

C. Modifying log storage protocols

D. Increasing the frequency of compliance monitoring visits

E. Requiring the mill to pay for eradication, treatment, or increased 

trapping costs (in States where authorities exist to do so)

F. Offering (or requiring) recertification or other appropriate training to 

mill personnel and the mill’s loggers

G. Installing a barrier to spongy moth movement between the mill 

premises and surrounding host vegetation

H. Extending the length of the high-risk period
Appendix G

Description of Space-Time Cluster Analysis

G-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Description of Space-Time Cluster Analysis

Basis for Statistical Analysis

Anselin’s Local Indicator of Spatial Association (LISA), a measure of spatial 

autocorrelation, is used to identify “hot spot” clusters of trap counts compared 

to the background population, or average trap count. It also detects spatial 

outliers, which is useful in identifying a single trap with catch surrounded by 

traps with zero catches (which may be indicative of a new introduction).

Procedure

Sawmills are buffered by 2 kilometers, which represents their immediate 

environs affected by a pathways introduction of spongy moth via regulated 

lumber transport and processing. The background population is evaluated over 

a 24 kilometer buffer around the mill, which also defines the extent of the 

LISA analysis. Trap counts that intersect treatment areas are removed from the 

analysis. A moving window analysis of 10 years’ of trap catch data within the 

environs area for each mill utilizes a 4-kilometer, 2-year space-time window. 

Multiple testing over x trap locations inflates significance testing, therefore, a 

false discovery rate is applied. Clusters are further analyzed to ensure they are 

“spatially distinct” and separated by a sufficient distance from other clusters of 

matching years outside the mill’s immediate environs. This ensures the 

population cluster detected is not likely to be influenced by nearby dynamics 

outside the mill environs.

Automation

The tool is written in Python code and is built into an ArcGIS toolbox for 

workflow automation. The tool is easy to use and can be applied to other 

programs looking for evaluation of pest population levels near potential 

introduction sites.

Deliverable

A formatted output table that records individual mill sites with significant 

cluster results. For records that return a significant result in the most recent 

year, the cluster results are graphically displayed within a geographic 

information system (GIS) environment to better visualize and interpret the 

results.
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual H-1

Appendix

H Appendix H

Accurate Statement

Contents

Introduction H-1

Required Information for the Accurate Statement H-1

Introduction

This appendix contains information on the signed Accurate Statement 

described in the spongy moth regulations. There are two Accurate Statements, 

one for logs and one for pulpwood or wood chips. Refer to Figure H-1 on page 

H-2 for an example of an Accurate Statement for logs and poles and Figure 

H-2 on page H-3 for an example of an Accurate Statement for pulpwood (or 

wood chips). The Accurate Statement must be attached to the waybill or other 

shipping documents accompanying logs, pulpwood, and wood chips inspected 

under a compliance agreement (CA).

Required Information for the Accurate Statement

The signed Accurate Statement must contain the following:

Applicable Federal quarantine (7 CFR 301.45)

Certification statement

Date of inspection

Destination of regulated article(s)

Location of inspection site

Mailing address of inspector

Name of inspector

Signature of inspector

Type and quantity of regulated article(s)
Appendix H

Required Information for the Accurate Statement

H-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Figure H-1 Example of Accurate Statement for Logs and Poles

Accurate Statement for Logs and Poles 

Name of Inspector: ______________________________________________________________ 

Mailing Address of Inspector: _____________________________________________________ 

(including company name) 

 _____________________________________________________ 

 _____________________________________________________ 

Location of Inspection Site: _______________________________________________________ 

Applicable Federal Quarantine: ____7CFR 301.45 _____________________________________ 

Regulated Article(s): _____________________________________________________________ 

 _____________________________________________________________ 

 _____________________________________________________________ 

Destination of Regulated Article(s): _________________________________________________ 

Certification Statement: 

I certify that all of the exterior surfaces (100 percent inspection) of the following logs were 

inspected in accordance with the gypsy moth regulations (7 CFR 301.45) and the Gypsy Moth 

Program Manual. 

Number of Logs: ____________________ Species: ____________________________________ 

As a result of the inspection, I certify that: 

 No life stages of the gypsy moth were found 

 All life stages found were treated 

This inspection occurred no more than five days prior to the date of movement. After the 

inspection, the logs were safeguarded to prevent infestation or reinfestation by gypsy moth. The 

above information is true to the best of my knowledge. 

Signature of Inspector: ___________________________________________________________ 

Date of Inspection: ______________________________________________________________ 
Appendix H

Required Information for the Accurate Statement

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual H-3

Figure H-2 Example of Accurate Statement for Pulpwood (or Wood Chips)
Appendix H

Required Information for the Accurate Statement

H-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual I-1

Appendix

I Appendix I

Qualified Certified Applicator Document

Contents

Qualified Certified Applicator Document I-1

Mobile Home and/or Outdoor Household Articles Associated Items I-2

Qualified Certified Applicator Document

Refer to Figure I-1 for an example of a Qualified Certified Applicator (QCA) 

document.
Appendix I

Qualified Certified Applicator Document

I-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Mobile Home and/or Outdoor Household Articles Associated 

Items

Refer to Outdoor Household Articles on page 3-21 for a list of OHAs.

Figure I-1 QCA Document

QCA DOCUMENT

The household move below involves a mobile home and/or OHAs that could have come in 

contact with some life stage of the VSRQJ\ moth. The mobile home and/or OHAs were 

examined for all life stages; as a result, were found to be free or treated to be free. 

1. NAME OF PERSON MOVING:

2. MOVING TO (DESTINATION):

Street address:

City: State: ZIP: 

3. MOVING FROM (PRESENT ADDRESS):

Street address:

City: State: ZIP: 

4. DATES:

Date of inspection:

Date of move:

5. TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Old home:

Work:

New home:

Work:

6. MOVING FIRM DATA:

Name of firm:

Street address:

City: State: ZIP: 

Telephone number (with area code):

7. INSPECTION DATA:

A. Notice:

This certificate is valid only if issued not more 

than five days before the move. See block 4. 

B. Mobile Home Inspection:

Yes No See list on back. 

 OHAs Inspection:

Yes No See attached list. 

Name of QCA (printed) Certificate No. Signature of QCA 
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual J-1

Appendix

J Appendix J

Emergency Action Notification, PPQ Form 523

Refer to Figure J-1 for an example of an Emergency Action Notification 

(EAN).
Appendix J

J-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Figure J-1 Emergency Action Notification (EAN), PPQ Form 523

FORM APPROVED - OMB NO. 0579-0102

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE

PLANT PROTECTION AND QUARANTINE

EMERGENCY ACTION NOTIFICATION

1. PPQ LOCATION

3. NAME AND QUANTITY OF ARTICLE(S) 4. LOCATION OF ARTICLES

5. DESTINATION OF ARTICLES

8. SHIPMENT ID NO.(S)

13. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN

7. NAME OF CARRIER

10. PORT OF LADING 11. DATE OF ARRIVAL

17. AFTER RECEIPT OF THIS NOTIFICATION COMPLETE SPECIFIED ACTION

 WITHIN (Specify No. Hours or No. Days):

18. SIGNATURE OF OFFICER:

 ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT OF EMERGENCY ACTION NOTIFICATION

I hereby acknowledge receipt of the foregoing notification.

SIGNATURE AND TITLE: DATE AND TIME:

19. REVOCATION OF NOTIFICATION

ACTION TAKEN:

SIGNATURE OF OFFICER: DATE:

PPQ FORM 523 (JULY 2002) Previous editions are obsolete.

9. OWNER/CONSIGNEE OF ARTICLES

Name:

Address:

PHONE NO. FAX NO.

SS NO. TAX ID NO.

15. FOREIGN CERTIFICATE NO.

15a. PLACE ISSUED 15b. DATE

Under Sections 411, 412, and 414 of the Plant Protection Act (7 USC 7711, 7712, and 7714) and Sections 10404 through 10407 of the Animal Health Protection Act (7 USC 8303 through 8306), you are hereby notified, as owner or agent of the owner of said carrier, premises, and/or articles, to apply remedial measures for

the pest(s), noxious weeds, and or article(s) specified in Item 12, in a manner satisfactory to and under the supervision of an Agriculture Officer. Remedial

measures shall be in accordance with the action specified in Item 16 and shall be completed within the time specified in Item 17.

AFTER RECEIPT OF THIS NOTIFICATION, ARTICLES AND/OR CARRIERS HEREIN DESIGNATED MUST NOT BE MOVED EXCEPT AS DIRECTED BY AN AGRICULTURE OFFICER. THE LOCAL OFFICER MAY BE CONTACTED AT:

Should the owner or owner's agent fail to comply with this order within the time specified below, USDA is authorized to recover from the owner or

agent cost of any care, handling, application of remedial measures, disposal, or other action incurred in connection with the remedial action,

destruction, or removal.

6. SHIPPER

12. ID OF PEST(S), NOXIOUS WEEDS, OR ARTICLE(S)

16. ACTION REQUIRED

TREATMENT:

RE-EXPORTATION:

DESTRUCTION:

OTHER:

SERIAL NO.

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this

information is 0579-0102. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources,

gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.

2. DATE ISSUED

14. GROWER NO.

12a. PEST ID NO. 12b. DATE INTERCEPTED
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual K-1

Appendix

K Appendix K

After Action Review
Appendix K

K-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Glossary-1

Spongy Moth 

Program 

Glossary

Use this glossary to find the meaning of specialized words, abbreviations, 

acronyms, and terms used by USDA–APHIS–PPQ–PHP. To locate where in 

the manual a given definition, term or abbreviation is mentioned, refer to the 

index.

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

Accurate Statement. document, prepared by an employee of an establishment 

operating under a compliance agreement (CA), which allows the establishment 

to ship logs, pulpwood, and/or wood chips. Along with other items, the 

Accurate Statement includes a certifying statement, information on the type of 

regulated article, the amount and/or number of regulated articles, and the 

signature of the inspecting employee

active ingredient. chemical in a product that produces the desired effect

artificial dispersal. dispersal by other than natural means; i.e., artificial 

dispersal occurs through human activities such as moving commercial 

products (nursery stock), vehicles (RVs, campers, cars), and forest products 

(logs, pulpwood with bark, bark mulch), and outdoor household articles 

(OHAs)

associated equipment. articles used in conjunction with mobile homes and 

RVs, such as, but not limited to, awnings, tents, outdoor furniture, trailer 

blocks, and trailer skirts

Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk). scientific name of the bacterium that is 

pathogenic to the larval stage of many lepidopterous insects. Btk is the active 

ingredient in several biological insecticides sold under various trade names

bark. tough outside covering of the trunk, branches, and roots of trees and 

certain other plants; the bark includes all tissues outside the vascular cambium 

(Barnhart, Dictionary of Science).

bark products. products containing pieces of bark; these products include 

bark chips, bark nuggets, bark mulch, and bark compost; bark that has been 

composted according to the procedures in Appendix F may move out of the 

quarantine area
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations 

Glossary-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

Btk. acronym for the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki and its 

biological insecticide

CA. abbreviation for compliance agreement

certificate. document, PPQ Form 540, issued by PPQ officers, State personnel, 

or CA holders that allows for moving regulated articles into or through a 

noninfested area

Christmas tree. Christmas trees are trees cut from their roots—if the 

Christmas trees have roots attached (e.g., balled and burlapped plants), the 

trees are considered nursery stock even if intended for display

compliance agreement (CA). official document specifying the conditions for 

growing, handling, or moving regulated articles, e.g., a written agreement 

between PPQ and/or the State and a shipper (a person or company) engaged in 

handling or moving regulated articles. In the CA, the shipper of the regulated 

articles agrees to comply with certain requirements to allow shipping the 

regulated articles

debarking. removing bark from round wood, wood carrying its natural 

rounded surface (debarking does not necessarily make the wood bark free)

defoliation. loss or shedding of leaves; significant defoliation occurs when 

spongy moths strip at least 30% of the leaves from the trees in a given area

delimiting survey. survey establishing the boundaries of an area considered to 

be infested or free of a pest; the typical delimiting survey for a spongy moth 

infestation uses pheromone traps, such as the delta trap

delta trap. triangular-shaped trap made of plastic-coated cardboard using 

Disparlure to attract male spongy moths

detection survey. survey determining if a pest is present; detection surveys for 

the spongy moth focus on finding infestations, particularly isolated 

infestations; the typical detection survey uses pheromone traps (when 

suspected infestations or obvious infestations are detected, further surveying 

using a delimiting survey usually follows)

Disparlure. commercially synthesized analogue of the sex pheromone emitted 

by the female spongy moth to attract the male

EA. abbreviation for environmental assessment (refer to Environmental 

Assessment on page E-1)

egg mass survey. survey to find egg masses to establish: 1) whether 

reproduction of spongy moth has occurred (if an infestation is present); and/or 

2) the population density by determining the amount of reproduction

eradication project. action taken to eliminate an infestation (with spongy 

moth, usually an isolated infestation)

established. introduced pest, present in an area, reproducing, and expected to 

continue to reproduce

FEIS. abbreviation for Final Environmental Impact Statement (refer to Final 

and Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement on page 6-5)
 Glossary

 Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Glossary-3

flighted spongy moth complex. complex of moths comprised of Lymantria

moths including Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar japonica, 

Lymantria albescens, Lymantria umbrosa, and Lymantria postalba

FONSI. abbreviation for Finding of No Significant Impact (refer to Finding of 

No Significant Impact on page E-8)

Forest Service. Forest Service, a USDA agency, working in combination with 

PPQ to eradicate certain pests

free of. a consignment, field, or place of production without pests or a specific 

pest (in this case, spongy moth).

FS. abbreviation for the Forest Service

geographic information system (GIS). system designed to capture, store, 

manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data

GIS. acronym for geographic information system

Global Positioning System (GPS). U.S.-owned utility providing users with 

positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. This system consists of 

three segments: 1) space segment: 2) control segment; 3) and the user segment. 

In spongy moth survey, GPS is used to feed data into GIS

Golden Pest Spray Oil. emulsified soybean oil used to treat spongy moth egg 

masses to prevent their hatch

gypsy moth. Lymantria dispar dispar, now known as spongy moth (refer to 

APHIS Announces New Common Names for Regulated Lymantria Moths, 

December 14, 2022)

infestation. reproducing population in a given area

IPHIS. web-based application providing a single, standardized, and 

comprehensive data management system capable of supporting activities 

associated with APHIS–PPQ’s domestic or emergency pest programs

isolated infestation. reproducing spongy moth population, typically 

occupying no more than a few hundred acres, located outside the quarantine 

area; isolated infestations are determined with a positive detection survey 

followed by a positive delimiting or egg mass survey

Limited Permit. official authorization (usually PPQ Form 530, issued by PPQ 

officers, State personnel, or CA holders) for moving regulated articles to a 

specified destination for treatment or processing

Lymantria dispar dispar (L.). scientific name for spongy moth

Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar japonica, Lymantria albescens, 

Lymantria umbrosa, and Lymantria postalba. scientific names for Lymantria

moths included in flighted spongy moth complex

MB. abbreviation used for methyl bromide

methyl bromide. fumigation chemical used to treat spongy moth egg masses

mobile home. any vehicle other than a recreational vehicle, designed to 

serve, when parked, as a dwelling or place of business
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations 

Glossary-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

monitoring. assessing compliance with the spongy moth regulation by 

reviewing activities required by CA

natural dispersal. dispersal occurring through natural means; for spongy 

moth, natural dispersal involves the short-distance movement of adult moths 

and the longer distance spread by windblown first-instar larvae

NEPA. acronym used for the National Environmental Policy Act of 1976 

(refer to Guidelines for Environmental Documents on page E-1)

noninfested area. area where a pest (in this case, the spongy moth) is not

established

NPV. abbreviation used for nucleopolyhedrosis virus of spongy moth

OHA. abbreviation used for an outdoor household article

outdoor household article. item associated with a household that has been 

kept outside the home; e.g., outdoor furniture, barbecue grills, dog houses, 

boats, hauling trailers, garden tools, tents, awnings, and firewood

QCA. abbreviation for qualified certified applicator

QCA document. document used by a pest control operator who is certified by 

the State or the USDA for the interstate movement of OHAs

qualified certified applicator. individual who is: 1) a certified pesticide 

applicator under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act 

(FIFRA) who can use the restricted pesticides recommended in this manual; 2) 

has successfully completed a workshop approved by PPQ on identifying and 

treating spongy moth life stages

quarantine area. area within which a quarantine pest is present and is being 

officially controlled. 

quarantine area. IPPC definition: area into which, within which, and/or 

from which plants, plant products, and other regulated articles are subjected to 

phytosanitary measures to prevent the introduction and/or spread of quarantine 

pests (in this case, spongy moth)

Spongy Moth Program Manual definition: infested area from which 

plants, plant products, and other regulated articles are subjected to 

phytosanitary measures to prevent the introduction and/or spread of the 

spongy moth

quarantine area. area in which spongy moth is established, i.e., 

maintaining a reproducing population

recreational vehicles. highway vehicles, including pickup truck campers, onepiece motor homes, and travel trailers, designed to serve as a temporary 

dwelling

regulated articles. include:

Christmas trees (including holiday greenery)

Logs (including firewood), pulpwood, bark, and bark products
 Glossary

 Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Glossary-5

Mobile homes and associated items

Nursery stock (trees with roots, shrubs with roots and persistent woody 

stems, unless they are greenhouse grown throughout the year)

OHAs

Any other products, articles, or means of conveyance posing a high risk of 

artificial spongy moth spread as determined by an APHIS employee or a 

State official

RV. abbreviation for recreational vehicle

Slow the Spread (STS). regional integrated pest management strategy aiming 

to minimize the rate of spongy moth spread into noninfested areas through 

comprehensive detection/delimiting survey data and a decision algorithm 

targeting treatment/trapping areas

spongy moth. Lymantria dispar dispar, Linnaeus, (Lepidoptera: 

Lymantriidae) a moth native to the Old World, having hairy caterpillars that 

feed on foliage and are very destructive to hardwood trees

transition area. area between the quarantine area and the noninfested area; 

because of natural dispersal, the area is in transition from noninfested to 

generally infested

Populations are variable and discontinuous; mostly male moths will be 

detected and occasionally other life stages

Population outbreaks do not occur and defoliation is uncommon

transition area survey. survey designed and conducted to monitor the 

transition area and provide data to support regulatory decisions

trap array. pattern of trap placement within an area

trap density. number of traps per unit of area

trapping frequency. how often an area is trapped

vapona. insecticide-impregnated strip used to kill adult spongy moths caught 

in milk carton traps
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations 

Glossary-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02
3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Index-1

Spongy Moth 

Program 

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

Index

A

above-ground swimming pools 1-2

absentee homeowner issues 5-6

accident reporting structure 6-8

accidents 1-10

Accurate Statement

definition of Glossary-1

for logs G-2, G-3

for logs and poles H-2

for pulpwood (or wood chips) H-3

for sawlogs 3-12

introduction to H-1

receiving regulated articles under 2-14

required information for H-1

acephate 3-10

active ingredient Glossary-1

adjustable nozzle 3-30

adult trapping 4-4

adult trapping survey 2-20

advisories 1-5

aerial applications 3-8

aerial logistics 6-9

aerial spraying 6-11

affluent residential areas 2-15

After Action Review 6-9, 6-11, K-1

after-school program leaders 5-7

aggressive animals 1-10

aggressive dogs 2-7

agricultural areas 2-16

agricultural land E-5

airports 6-11

alternative inspection methods 3-12

alternative media 5-5

American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 1-5

analyses 2-13

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 1-2

animal damage 2-8

annual inspections 3-7

annual national detection survey 2-2

Anselin’s Local Indicator of Spatial Association G-6

APHIS funded survey work 2-26

APHIS program aid #2417 3-6

APHIS Spongy Moth National Policy Manager 4-4

APHIS–PPQ 1-2

apple 2-6

application equipment 6-10

application rates 6-10

appropriate distribution of traps 2-5

appropriate documentation

for regulated articles 3-3, 3-6

shipments leaving the quarantine area 3-18

appropriate precautions 6-11

appropriate regulatory action 2-24

Arbor Day 5-7

ArcGIS toolbox G-6

array of traps 6-12

artificial dispersal 2-17, Glossary-1

artificial spread of spongy moth

conditions favoring 3-7

establishment of isolated infestations by 1-3

high risk of 3-7

OHAs as most likely means of 3-23

preventing 1-2, 3-2, 3-3

Asian spongy moth

identification of 2-27

aspen 5-3

assembly-yard inspection 3-9

associated equipment Glossary-1

associated traps 2-17

availability of equipment 6-3

available funding 2-3

available resources 2-17

average trap count G-6

awareness of the pest 5-2

Azalea 3-10, 3-11

azaleas 3-10

B

Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki 5-4, Glossary-1

background population G-6

backing up the vehicle 1-10

backpack 2-3

backup measure 2-5

bald eagle nests 6-11

balled and burlapped nursery stock 3-6

bar codes 2-5

bark

as a regulated article 3-2

certifying 3-12

chips 3-17, 3-18

composting procedure F-1

crevices 2-21, 3-9

definition of 3-17, Glossary-1

mulch 3-17

pile composting procedures F-2

processing facilities for 3-6

products 3-2, 3-4, 3-12, 3-17

signed Accurate Statement for 3-4

base grid density 2-5

basswood 2-6

bears 2-7

behavioral methods 2-24

Berberis 3-10, 3-11

bids for contracted treatments 6-10

binoculars 3-27
Index

Index-2 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

biofuel 3-17

Biological Assessment 6-7, E-6

Biological Evaluation 6-7

biological organisms E-5

biological pesticides 6-8

biological resources E-5

biopesticide 5-4

birch 2-6, 5-3

birch bark 3-21

birdhouses 2-21

blocks 3-24, 3-28

blow-in 3-8

bodies of water E-6

boldface type 1-6

bolts 3-12

boughs 3-19, 3-20

boundaries of an infestation 2-2

boundaries of the area to be treated 6-10

boxelder 2-6

brake drums 3-29

brakes 3-24, 3-27

branch tips 2-19

branches 2-21

breeding populations 2-2

broadleaved genera 3-10, 3-11

brush 3-25, 3-30

budgeting 6-11

buffers 2-13

bulldozer F-1, F-2

bulleted lists 1-6

bulls 1-10

burlap 2-25

butterflies 5-5

C

calipers 2-2, 2-12

Camellia 3-10, 3-11

camp counselors 5-7

campgrounds 2-7, 2-15, 2-23, 2-24

campsites 3-6

captured moths 2-13

carbaryl 3-10

cardinal directions 2-14

categorizing sites 2-3

Category 1 area 2-4

Category 1 areas 2-15

Category 2 areas 2-16

Category 3 areas 2-16

Category 4 areas 2-16

Category one high-risk sites 3-5

Category S areas 2-7

Category S-Regulatory Sites 2-14

Category three high-risk sites 3-6

Category two high-risk sites 3-5

caterpillars 5-3

cattle 2-7

caution, as an advisory 1-6

cedar 3-19, 5-3

cell phones 1-10

certificate

definition of Glossary-2

for logs G-3

for regulated articles 2-14

certifying documents 3-23, 3-24, 3-26

change bars 1-6

chemical or behavioral methods 2-24

chemical pesticides 6-8

child care centers E-7

chimney caps 3-30

chloropicrin 3-10

choice hosts 2-8

Christmas trees

as balled and burlapped nursery stock 3-6

as regulated articles 3-2, 5-4

cut conifer 3-11

definition of Glossary-2

industry 5-7

methyl bromide treatment schedule for 3-11

plantations 2-23, 3-5, 3-7, 3-8, 3-10, 4-3

procedures for certifying 3-6

circuit breaker boxes 3-29

cities 2-15

city maps 2-12, 2-18

Clean Water Act 6-7

climatic conditions 2-13

clotheslines 1-2

cluster results G-6

Code of Federal Regulations G-2, G-3

collateral materials 5-6

collection number C-2

collection site 3-20

colored pencils 2-2

comment period 6-6

comment periods 6-9

commerce 5-7

commercial areas 2-15

communication kit 5-7

communication plan 6-4

communication tools 5-7

community leaders 5-5, 5-6

community support 5-6

compliance 5-6

compliance agreement template 3-4

compliance agreements

definition of Glossary-2

description of D-1

entering into 3-4, 3-6

establishments operating under 3-3

mills operating under 2-14

template for D-2

compliance monitoring visits G-5

compost pile 3-17, F-1, F-2

composting procedures 3-17

compressors 3-29

concealed areas 3-29

conducting the survey 2-5

conifers 3-11

contact insecticide 3-26

containerized moving services 3-22

containment 1-3

contiguous wooded areas 2-16

contract carriers 3-23

contractors 6-3

control data 1-6

control measures 5-6

control methods 2-24
Index

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Index-3

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

cooperative agreement 2-11

Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 E-4

cooperative treatment program E-4

cooperator involvement 6-3

cooperator partnerships 6-3

cooperators 1-4, 6-3

core activities 5-1

core messages 6-5

cost share contributions 6-5

cottonwood 5-3

Council on Environmental Quality 6-6

county maps 2-12, 2-18

coveralls 3-24, 3-28

crayons 2-3

critical habitat E-6

critical information 2-22, 2-23, 2-24

cumulative impacts E-6

custom fields B-3

D

daily activities 1-10

damaged traps 2-10

danger, as an advisory 1-6

data collection B-1

data fields B-1

data gaps 2-18

date of survey 2-22, 2-23, 2-24

daylight hours 2-26

dealers 3-27

dealerships 3-6

debarking Glossary-2

deciduous, dormant woody plants 3-10

decision documents 6-9

decision tables 1-7

defoliation Glossary-2

defoliation of trees E-6

degradation of moths 2-13

delimitation grids 2-18

delimiting array of traps 6-12

delimiting survey

after eradication effort 2-17

as a remedial action G-5

checking traps for 2-10

conducted following a detection survey 2-18

continuation of 6-12

definition of Glossary-2

determining personnel needs for 2-4

further required 2-13

planning for 2-3

purpose of 2-17

scale on topographic map 2-18

spongy moths not captured during 2-19

traps plotted for 2-18

used to define boundaries of an infestation 2-2

delta traps

assembly of A-1

attachment to host tree 2-8

compared to milk carton traps 4-3

definition of Glossary-2

description of 5-3

materials needed for spongy moth surveys 2-3

used in trap survey 2-26

demographic and host information 2-14

demographic factors 6-3

demographic groups 6-3

demographics E-5

deputized law enforcement officers 6-11

descriptive information 2-12

designated critical habitat E-6

designated trained identifier 2-27

detectable infestation 2-19

detection survey

annual national 2-2

checking traps 2-10

conducting 2-5

definition of Glossary-2

determining personnel needs for 2-4

materials needed for 2-2

moths captured during 2-18

planning for 2-3

purpose of 2-13

records and maps 2-12

results from 2-17

traps plotted for 2-5

determining flight periods 2-13

determining personnel needs 2-4

determining trap needs 2-3

determining trapping requirements 2-3

difficult terrain 2-4

diflubenzuron 3-10

digital GIS maps 2-12

disagreements 1-8

disinfestation 3-26

disinfestation practices 3-4

Disparlure 5-4, A-1

disparlure Glossary-2

disposal yards 3-6

distribution of traps 2-5

documentation 3-3

documentation forms 3-20

documentation requirements 3-6

dogs 1-10

door hanger 2-3, 2-7

dormant evergreens 3-11

dormant woody plants 3-10

drainpipes 3-29

drinking water 1-10

drone aircraft 6-11

drop cloth 3-24, 3-29

E

EAN 3-8, 3-9, J-2

early detection 1-3

Earth Day 5-7

eaves 2-21, 3-29

economic threshold E-3

edgings 3-12

effective range 3-9

egg hatch 2-25, 3-8

egg laying sites 2-22, 2-23, 3-7

egg mass survey

basic procedures for 2-21

definition of Glossary-2

for regulatory purposes 2-23

general observation technique 2-23

in areas with low-level populations 2-20
Index

Index-4 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

initiating factors for 2-27

methods 2-27

multiple egg masses detected in 4-4

targeted visual survey 2-22

use of larval trapping in place of 2-24

when to survey 2-20

egg masses

counting 2-22, 2-23, 2-24

description of 5-2

how to identify and locate 2-22, 2-23

how to survey for 2-21

inspecting for 3-7

knowing how to identify and locate 2-22

when to survey for 2-20

where to find 2-24

electrical connections 3-29

Emergency Action Notification (PPQ Form 523) J-1

emergency declarations 6-11

emergency facilities E-3

emergency medical resources 6-8

endangered species E-6, E-8

Endangered Species Act 1-5, 6-6, E-4

environment E-8

Environmental Assessments E-1

description of E-1

for site-specific analysis 6-6

related to the spongy moth program 1-5

to meet NEPA requirements 6-5

environmental consequences E-5

environmental documentation 6-11

environmental health E-7

Environmental Impact Statements 6-5

environmental impacts 6-5, 6-6

environmental laws and regulations 6-8

environmental regulatory agencies 6-8

environmental reviews 6-3, 6-5

environmentally sensitive areas 6-4

environs 2-23, 2-24

equipment 6-10

eradication

activities 6-1, 6-4, 6-5

control of spongy moth populations by 1-3

effort 2-17

larval trapping for 2-24

of isolated infestations 1-3

program E-1

project 6-4, Glossary-2

sites 6-2, 6-4

treatments 6-1, 6-4, 6-11

essential fields B-1

established breeding populations 2-2

established populations 2-26

established protocols 2-13

established survey area 2-5

establishing treatment boundaries 2-13

establishments handling regulated articles 2-23

ethnic populations E-7

examples 1-7

Excel Template for Submission C-9

Executive Orders E-7, G-2

existing protocols 4-4

exit route 1-10

expansion unit 3-29

expenses 6-5

extermination 6-1

external review 6-4

exuvia 6-2

F

Facebook 5-5

fact sheets 5-6

false discovery rate G-6

farm animals 2-8

Farm Bill E-3

Federal agriculture officials 5-5

Federal and State parks 2-21

Federal Certificate

for holiday greenery 3-20, 3-21

for mobile homes or mobile offices 3-27, 3-31

for OHA inspections 3-26

for pulpwood 3-15, 3-16

for sawlogs 3-14

for wood chips, bark chips, and bark products

3-18, 3-19

required documentation 3-3

Federal financial assistance 6-5

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act

E-4

Federal lands 6-2

Federal Orders 2-13

Federal permits 6-11

Federal program representatives 5-6

Federal Register 2-13

feed hopper 3-17

FEIS Glossary-2

female moths 2-20

fences 1-2, 5-5

field activities B-4

field inspections 3-20

field observers 6-10

Field Operations spongy moth manager B-3

field placement of traps 2-12

filling of application equipment 6-10

Final and Supplemental Environmental Impact

Statement 6-5

Final Environmental Impact Statement 6-4, E-1, Glossary-2

financial plan 6-5

Finding of No Significant Impact 6-6, E-8, Glossary-3

fir 3-19

firewood

as a preferred egg laying site 2-21

as a regulated article 3-2

as an outdoor household article 3-22, 3-23

dealers 2-14, 2-15

distributors 2-14

procedures for certifying 3-12

production and distribution yards 3-6

first aid kit 1-10, 2-3

first-level headings 1-6

flagging ribbon 2-3, 2-10

flagging tape 2-11

flares 1-10

flashing 3-28, 3-29, 3-30

flashlight 3-24, 3-27, 3-28
Index

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Index-5

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

flight operations 6-11

flight period 2-13

flighted spongy moth complex risk model 2-13, 2-

14

floor boards 3-29

follow up actions 2-19, G-5

FONSI 6-6, E-8, Glossary-3

footnotes 1-7

forest canopy 3-8

forest edges 2-23, 2-24

forest products 3-12

forest products industry 5-7

Forest Service Glossary-3

formatted output table G-6

frame 3-29

frequency for trapping an area 2-3

front-end loader F-1, F-2

fruit trees 1-2, 5-3

fumigation 3-25

funding 6-8

G

garbage containers 3-22

garden tools 3-22

garlands 3-19

general observation technique 2-23

generally infested area 2-26, 6-2

generally infested quarantine area 2-26

generally infested regulated area 2-20

geographic information system Glossary-3

geographic region E-3

GIS definition Glossary-3

GIS environment G-6

GIS maps 2-12

GIS software 2-12

GIS systems 2-5

GIS technologies 6-4

Global Positioning System Glossary-3

gloves 3-28

gloves, nitrile 1-10, 2-2

Golden Pest Spray Oil

definition of Glossary-3

treatment for mobile homes or mobile offices

3-30

treatment for outdoor household articles 3-25

treatment for regulated articles 3-9

treatment for sawlogs 3-13

GovDelivery 1-9

government agencies 6-3

GPS coordinates

capturing 2-12

for traps containing suspect moths 2-11

recording 2-7, 2-11

sites where not available 2-8

use of in addition to house address 2-10

GPS definition Glossary-3

GPS unit 2-2

grease pencil 2-3

grid

density 2-14

locations 2-7

overlay 2-3

pattern 5-4

points 2-18

spacing 2-18

use of to plot trap location 2-12

grills 1-3

ground applications 3-8

ground cover 3-27

ground litter 2-21

ground logistics 6-9

guidelines for environmental documents E-1

Gypchek 5-4

H

habitat 2-13

hammer A-1

hammermill 3-17

hammermilling process 3-17

hand mirror 3-24, 3-27, 3-29

handouts 5-6

hardhat 3-13, 3-28

hardwood forests 1-2

hazardous conditions 1-9

health agencies 6-3

health care facilities 6-4

helipads 6-11

hiding places 2-25

high infestation levels 2-20

high risk period G-4

high tourist areas 2-15

high visibility vest 1-10, 2-3

high-risk areas 2-13

high-risk site treatment 3-9

high-risk sites 2-20, 3-5, 3-6, 3-7

high-use areas 2-10

historic properties E-6

historical preservation E-6

holding areas 3-6

holiday greenery 3-2, 3-19, 3-20

homeowners 3-23

home-school organizations 5-7

hospitals E-5

host availability 2-13

host information 2-14

host range 5-6

host trees

areas with 2-24

availability of 2-8

high-risk areas containing 2-13

placing traps on 2-19, 2-25

spongy moth preference 2-6

host vegetation 2-17, G-5

hot spot clusters of trap counts G-6

hotels 6-10

hotline 5-5

household moves 2-21

houses 1-2

human health E-1, E-8

human health and safety E-5

human resource departments 5-8

human-assisted dispersal 4-2

human-assisted spread 5-1, 6-1

hydraulic sprayers 3-8

hypertext 1-8
Index

Index-6 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

I

identification number 2-11

Ilex 3-10, 3-11

immunologically sensitive individuals E-6

improvements 1-8

Incident Command System 6-10

incinerator 2-11

indents 1-8

individual trap sites 2-19

industrial development E-5

industries 5-7

industry practices G-2

infestation 2-17, 2-26, Glossary-3

infestation risk 2-13

infested area 4-4

infested areas 2-21, 4-3

infested articles 2-26, 4-2

infested material 5-3

in-field communication plan 6-10

informational materials 5-5

informational posters 5-6

initial assessment 6-3

initial trap checks 2-10, 2-27

inoculum F-1, F-2

insect borne diseases 1-10

insect repellent 2-3

insecticidal coverage 3-8

insecticide 3-30

insecticide applications 3-8, 3-9

insecticide labels and labeling 1-5, 3-30

inspection criteria 3-7

inspection protocols 3-9

inspection results 3-7

inspections 3-7

instars 2-25

Integrated Plant Health Information System B-1

intended survey area 2-22, 2-23

interactive maps 6-4

interagency working group G-2

interim rules 2-13

internal discussions 6-3

interpreting survey results 2-11

interstate shipment 2-15

in-trap degradation of moths 2-13

introduction sites G-6

invasive forest pests 5-8

isolated infestations 1-2, 1-3, 2-13, 4-2, 5-1, 6-2, Glossary-3

J

jack 1-10, 3-24, 3-28

James Wilson 5-1

K

known radius 2-23

L

ladder 3-27

laid out method 3-12, 3-13

land use patterns 6-3

landowner notice 2-3

larch 2-6, 2-7, 5-3

large infestations 2-13

large-scale map 2-18

larvae 2-25, 3-2, 3-7, 3-12, 3-13, 5-4

larval detection survey 2-24, 2-26

larval development 2-24, 3-7, E-5

larval infestations 3-8

larval inspections 3-7

larval instars 2-6

larval migration 3-8

larval period 2-26

larval skins 2-21

larval trapping 2-20, 2-24, 2-25

larval traps 2-25, 2-26

late instar larvae 3-9

law enforcement involvement E-3

law enforcement officers 6-11

lawn furniture 5-4, 5-5

lawnmowers 1-3

lead agency 6-3

leading edge 5-4

leaf drop 2-20

leaf fall 3-7

leaving the vehicle 1-10

legal challenges 6-4, 6-11

legal costs 6-11

legend 2-12

Legislative and Public Affairs 3-23

lepidopteran larvae E-5

limbs 2-21

limited habitat 2-16

Limited Permit

definition of Glossary-3

for holiday greenery 3-20, 3-21

for logs G-2, G-3

for outdoor household articles 3-26

for pulpwood 3-15, 3-16

for regulated articles 2-14, 3-3

for wood chips, bark chips, and bark products

3-18, 3-19

linden 2-6

local community 5-6

local concerns 5-6

local cooperators 5-6

local environment E-6

local flight season 2-13

local government 5-5

local guidelines 2-12

Local Indicator of Spatial Association G-6

local law enforcement 6-11

local officials 5-5

local risk data layers 2-14

locating traps 2-10

location of recovery 2-10

locked gates 2-8

log inspection 3-13

log stacks 3-13

log storage protocols G-5

log yards 4-3

logging sites 3-6

log-handling yard 3-13

logs

as preferred egg-laying sites 2-21

as regulated articles 3-2, 5-4

procedures for certifying 3-12

protocols for G-1
Index

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Index-7

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

signed Accurate Statement for 3-4

yards for 3-6

loose bark 2-21

low hanging power lines 6-3

low population levels 5-1

low-income populations E-7, E-8

low-level populations 2-20, 2-27

LPA staff 5-7

lug wrench 1-10, 3-24

lures 2-3, 2-11

M

major universities 2-15

male moths 2-7, 2-11, 2-26, 5-4

management activities 5-7, E-3

manual

conventions of 1-5

how to use 1-5

purpose of 1-2

related documents of 1-4

reporting problems for 1-8

scope of 1-3

mapping software 2-18

maps 2-3, 2-4, 6-4

marking crayon 2-10

marking tape 2-3

marking trap locations 2-10

mass trapping 5-4

mating disruption 5-4

mating partners 2-2

MB Glossary-3

Medford, Massachusetts 1-2

media

contacting 3-22

informing regarding program activities 5-5

informing the public through 3-23

outlets 5-7

relations 5-7

memorandums of understanding 1-5

method of inspection 3-7

methyl bromide Glossary-3

methyl bromide (MB) fumigations 3-10

military bases 2-15, 3-6

milk carton traps 2-26, 4-3, 5-3

mill environs G-6

mill management G-5

mill premises G-5

mill sites G-6

mills 2-14, 2-15, 2-24, 3-8, 3-16, 4-3

mini TOC 1-6

minorities E-8

mirrors 3-28

missing traps 2-10, 2-11

mist blowers 3-8

mitigation procedures

for holiday greenery 3-20

for pulpwood 3-15

for sawlogs 3-12

for small quantities of regulated articles 3-9

for wood chips, bark chips, and bark products

3-17

training for 3-5

mitigations of potential impacts E-7

mixing of spray solutions 6-10

mobile data device 2-2

mobile home parks 3-8

mobile homes

as regulated articles 3-2, 5-4

category two high-risk sites 3-6

definition of Glossary-3

documentation for shipping 3-30

examining undersides of 3-27

inspection procedure 3-28

movement of 3-26

need to inspect 3-27

mobile offices 3-6, 3-26, 3-27, 3-28, 3-30

mobile structures 3-26

model availability 2-13

moderate infestation levels 2-20

moderate populations 2-16

modular buildings 3-6

monitoring Glossary-4

moth catches 2-12

mountain ash 2-7

moving companies 3-6, 3-22

moving industry 5-7

moving van 3-25

multiple catches 6-2

municipal public works departments 5-8

N

nails A-1

NAPIS Glossary-4

national detection survey 2-2

National Environmental Policy Act 6-5, 6-6, E-4, Glossary-4

National Historical Preservation Act E-4

National Parks 2-15

National Plant Board G-2

National Policy Manager 4-4, C-7

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 6-

7, 6-8

national program management 2-13, 2-19

national recognitions 5-7

National Spongy Moth Survey 2-3, 2-15

National Survey Plan for Spongy Moth 1-5

national system template B-3

native plant material 3-9

natural dispersal 2-26, Glossary-4

natural factors 2-2

natural resources E-5, G-2

navigational capabilities 6-10

neighborhood streets 6-11

NEPA Glossary-4

new edition 1-8

New England 1-2

news releases 5-5

newspapers 3-22

nitrile gloves 1-10, 2-3

No Action Alternative E-4, E-6

no-infested areas

artificial spread of spongy moth to 3-3

non-adult life stages 6-2

noncontiguous wooded areas 2-16

non-infested areas

definition of Glossary-4
Index

Index-8 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

movement of regulated articles to 3-2

status 2-20

noninfested areas

human-assisted spread of spongy moth to 5-1

lacking established spongy moth population 4-

1

nontarget species E-5

non-timber forest products 3-21

North America 1-3

notice, as an advisory 1-6

NPV Glossary-4

nucleopolyhedrosis virus 5-4, Glossary-4

number of traps required 2-3

nurseries

aerial applications used to treat 3-8

as Category 1 areas 2-15

as Category S-Regulatory sites 2-14

as high-risk sites 3-5

environs of 2-24

inspection of 3-7, 4-3

nursery and landscape industry 5-7

nursery stock 3-2, 3-6, 5-4

O

oak 2-6, 5-3

observed defoliation 2-21

observed egg masses 2-23

OHA Glossary-4

online communication 5-6

online resources 5-5

open areas 2-7

open house events 6-11

open houses 5-6

operational checklists 6-8

operational headquarters 6-10

operational phase 6-11

original submitter C-7

ornamental trees 1-2

other survey tools 2-20

outbreak levels 4-1

outdoor articles 1-3

outdoor furniture 3-22

outdoor household articles 2-15, 2-21, 3-2, 3-21, Glossary-4

outdoor toys 5-4

outlying detections 2-2

outlying infestations 4-2

outlying introductions 2-2

outlying populations 2-2, 6-1

output table G-6

outreach

as a universal job function 5-2

element of an operational checklist 6-9

emphasis on 3-6

material 5-6

needs 6-3

opportunities 5-7

public 5-1

stakeholder interaction 6-4

overall trap condition 2-10

overlay 2-12

ovicide Glossary-4

P

paint brush 3-25, 3-30

paint scraper 3-13, 3-24, 3-25, 3-27, 3-30

paper clips A-1

paperwork access requirements G-5

parking on a steep slope 1-10

parks 2-7, E-5

part-time employees 1-4

pens for mapping moth finds 2-2

permit to move live pests C-2

permitting 6-9

personal injury 1-9

pesticide applicators 3-3, 3-23, 3-27

pesticide drift E-6

pesticide effectiveness 3-8

Pesticide General Permits 6-8

pesticide residues E-6

pesticide use 6-3

pets 5-3

phenological modeling 6-10

phenology 6-11

phenology models

for flight periods 2-13

for insecticide applications 3-8

for larval development stages 3-7

for timing of the survey 2-20

for trap checks 2-10

for trap placement 2-7, 2-27

pheromone 2-7, 5-4

pheromone traps 2-20

phosmet 3-10

Photinia 3-10, 3-11

physical removal of egg masses 3-9

picnic areas 2-10

picnic tables 2-21

piece-by-piece examination 3-12

piece-by-piece inspection 3-9

pine 3-19

pine Christmas trees 3-11

pine shoot beetle 3-11

placement of spray cards 6-10

plain language 5-6

planned grids 2-18

planning process 6-5

planning the survey 2-3

Plant Protection Act of 2000 E-3

Plant Protection and Quarantine 1-2, 3-3

Plant Quarantine Act of 1912 1-2

plastic bags 3-25

plastic flagging ribbon 2-10

plastic sheeting 3-25

plastic tape 2-10

play areas 1-2

pliers 2-3

plot locations 2-19

poison control hotlines E-3

poison ivy 2-8

poisonous plants 1-10

poisonous snakes 1-10

political factors 6-3

political representatives 5-6

poplar 5-3
Index

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Index-9

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

population cluster G-6

population density 3-7, 5-3, 6-3

population levels

assessing 2-24

egg mass surveys to determine 2-20

evaluation of pest G-6

monitoring G-2

spongy moth traps calibrated to G-3

suppressing or reducing 6-2

use of surveys in determining 2-2

populations 2-27

populations levels

monitoring 4-2

port of entry C-1

positioning of field observers 6-10

positive finds 2-19

positive traps 2-17, 2-23

possible introductions 2-21

post treatment survey 2-17

posted speed limits 1-10

post-entry requirement 3-9

posts 5-4

postseason decision making 2-13

posttreatment survey Glossary-4

potential domains B-1

potential effects E-7

potential for artificial dispersal 2-17

potential impact 5-6

potential introduction sites G-6

power lines 6-3

PPQ forms

Electronic stamp (provided or approved by

USDA) 3-3, 3-4

PPQ Form 343 (Trapping Record) 2-2, 2-10

PPQ Form 353 (Trap Site Map) 2-12

PPQ Form 377 (Self-Inspection Checklist) 3-

22

PPQ Form 391 (Specimens for Determination)

2-3, C-1, C-8

PPQ Form 519 (Compliance Agreement (CA))

D-1

PPQ Form 519 (Compliance Agreement) D-1

PPQ Form 523 (Emergency Action Notification) 3-8, J-1

PPQ Form 527 (self adhesive labels) 3-3

PPQ Form 530 (booklet of Limited Permits) 3-

3

PPQ Form 537 (self adhesive labels) 3-4

PPQ Form 540 3-27

PPQ Form 540 (booklet of certificates) 3-3

Rubber stamp (provided or approved by USDA) 3-3, 3-4

Self-Inspection Checklist (PPQ Form 377) 3-4

PPQ Officers

as users of the manual 1-4

documentation forms provided by 3-16

Federal Certificates issued by 3-15

for regulatory activities 3-3

for training business employees 3-4

inspecting high-risk sites and establishments

3-6

Limited Permits issued by 3-15

PPQ Treatment Manual 3-8, 3-10

precautionary measures E-3

predation 2-2

prefabricated housing 3-6

preferred alternative E-4

preferred egg-laying sites 2-21, 2-23

preferred habitat 2-8

preferred host trees 2-6, 2-13, 2-21, 2-24, 3-7

preferred hosts 2-21

preliminary eradication proposal 6-4

preliminary proposal 6-5

preliminary survey 2-20

preprinted bar codes 2-5

preprinted labels 2-2

preventive measures 1-10

primary users of the manual 1-4

private citizens 3-3

private industry 1-4

private property 1-5, 2-8

probe 3-24, 3-28

processing conditions G-2

processing facilities 3-5, G-2, G-3

processing requirements G-2

product storage 6-10

product to be applied 6-10

production and distribution yards 3-5

program

activities 1-4, 5-5

cooperation in 1-3

delivery 2-2

effectiveness 2-2

information 2-7

initiatives 5-7

management D-1

managers 1-4

materials 5-6

personnel 6-11

publications 5-8

staff 5-5

strategy 5-6

Program Aid No. 2147 (for OHAs) 3-4, 3-22, 3-23, 3-26

project coordinators 6-8

project partners 6-5

projected flight period 2-13

proper timing for trap placement 2-7

proposed actions 6-5

proposed eradication 6-6

proposed eradication project 6-8

proposed rules 2-13

proposed treatment 6-5, 6-7, E-6

proposed treatment area 6-7

protective equipment 1-9

public agencies 6-3

public and stakeholder support 5-2

public comments E-8

public concerns 5-6

public disclosure laws 6-9

public education 1-3

public engagement activities 6-11

public meeting events 6-11

public meetings 5-6

public outreach 5-1, E-3, E-8

public perceptions 6-3
Index

Index-10 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

public relations campaign 3-23

public scoping notices E-8

public support 1-3, 6-4

public venues 5-6

public works departments 5-8

publication names 1-8

pulp mills 2-14

pulpwood 3-15

as a regulated article 3-2, 5-4

associated yards for 3-6

firms that regularly move 3-15

mills receiving 3-16

procedures for certifying 3-12

signed Accurate Statement for 3-4

pupae 2-25, 3-2, 3-12, 3-13, 5-4

pupal cases 2-21, 6-2

pupal exuvia 6-2

putty knife 3-27

Python code G-6

Q

QCA Glossary-4

QCA Document I-1

QCA document 3-26, 3-31, Glossary-4

quadrants 2-22

qualified certified applicators 3-3, 3-22, 3-23, 3-

27, 3-31, Glossary-4

quality assurance B-4

quality control activities 2-10

quarantine area

artificial spread of spongy moth from 3-3

definition of Glossary-4

household moves originating in 2-21

leading edge of 1-3

regulated materials from 2-15

sawlogs from 3-13

shifting a county in the transition area to 2-26

shipping sawlogs from 3-14

quarantine boundaries 3-3, 3-13

quarantine decisions 2-24

quarantine expansion activities 2-13

quarantine maps 2-13

quarantine restrictions 5-6

quarantine revisions 2-13

R

radio 3-22

radio transmission towers 6-3

rail transfer stations 2-15

rain guard 3-29

real estate agencies 5-8

receiving facilities 3-14, 3-16, 3-20

receiving mills 3-15, 3-17, G-1, G-2, G-4

recertification G-5

record maintenance 2-12

Record of Decision Glossary-4

recreational areas 3-8, 5-7

recreational parks 2-7

recreational value of shade trees E-3

recreational vehicles 2-15, 2-21, 3-6, 3-22, Glossary-4

regulated articles

areas where establishments receive 2-21

compliance agreement for movement of 3-4

definition of Glossary-4

documentation for 3-3

establishments handling 2-23

fumigating 3-10

handling of 3-5

inspection of 3-7

large quantities of 3-3, 3-10

list of 3-2

loads of 3-3

movement of 2-13, 3-6, 4-2

small quantities of 3-9

spraying with insecticide 3-10

type of 3-5

regulated establishment 3-8

regulated industries 3-3, 5-7

regulated logs G-3

regulated materials 2-14, 2-15

regulated mill sites G-4

regulated mills G-2

regulatory actions 2-20, 2-24

regulatory activities 3-2, 3-3, 4-2

regulatory burdens G-2

regulatory decision making 2-2

regulatory decisions 2-26

regulatory officials 1-4

regulatory purposes 2-22

regulatory requirements 6-3, 6-9

re-infestation 3-9

relative costs 6-3

relocations 2-15

remedial actions G-1, G-5

removing traps 2-11

rental companies 3-23

rental facilities 3-6

renters 3-23

repair tools 1-10

replacement traps and lures 2-10

replacing a trap 2-10

reporting issues with the manual 1-9

reproducing populations 2-20, 2-24, 6-2

required documentation 3-15, 3-16, 3-17, 3-20

research 2-24

residential areas 2-7, 2-15

resort areas 5-6

resources 2-26

results comparison 2-18

revisions to the manual 1-6

rim 3-29

road construction 2-8

roadside rest areas 2-10

rocks 2-21

roundwood 3-15

ruler 2-2, 2-12

S

safe parking place 1-10

safety advisory 1-6

safety and health regulations 1-9

Safety Data Sheets 1-5, E-8

safety equipment 1-10

safety glasses 1-10, 2-3, 3-28

safety hazards 6-3, 6-4

safety measures 1-9
Index

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Index-11

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

safety plan 6-8

safety precautions 3-13

safety reminders when trapping 1-10

sanitary landfill 2-11

saw mills 2-14

saw timber 3-12

sawlogs 3-12, 3-13, 3-14

sawmills G-6

school properties 2-8

schools 6-4, E-5, E-7

scientific journals E-7

scientific names of commodities 1-8

scout leaders 5-7

screwdriver 3-24, 3-28, 3-29

sealed secondary container C-2

seat belts 1-10

secondary users of the manual 1-4

second-level headings 1-6

security 6-11

self-inspection 3-6

self-inspection checklist 3-22

servicing traps 1-10

setting traps 2-7

sex attractant for traps 2-3

shade trees 1-2

shady areas 2-7

sheltered spots 2-21

shipping companies 3-15

shipping documents 3-14, 3-16

shipping facilities 3-12, 3-19

shrubs with roots 3-2

sidewalks 1-2

siding 2-21, 3-28

signed Accurate Statement 3-4, 3-14, 3-16

significance testing G-6

significant cluster results G-6

signs 2-21

site method 2-24

site-specific basis E-1

site-specific environment E-5

site-specific treatment program E-3

size of the area to be treated 6-10

skirting 3-27, 3-29

slabs 3-12

Slow the Spread 4-1, 5-4, 6-1, Glossary-5

Slow the Spread Foundation G-2

small cities 2-16

small quantities of regulated articles 3-9

small towns 2-16

small-plot egg-mass survey 2-23

snake bite kit 1-10

snake leggings 1-10, 2-3

snakes 3-28

social factors 6-3

Society of American Foresters 3-12, 3-15

Space-time Cluster Analysis G-4, G-6

spatial outliers G-6

specialized navigational capabilities 6-10

Specimens for Determination Form (PPQ Form

391) 2-3

speckled alder 2-7

SPHD B-3

spiders 3-28

spill response plans 6-10

spinosad 3-10

spongy moth

background on 1-2

damage caused by 1-2

potential damage from 1-3

spongy moth alert 5-7

Spongy Moth Management in the United States, a

cooperative approach 1-4

Spongy Moth Proposal 1-5

spongy moth quarantine 3-4

spray cards 6-10

spray equipment 3-9

spray-day notifications 6-10

sprayer 3-25, 3-30

spruce 3-19

Staff Officers 1-4

staging areas 6-11

stakeholder announcements 1-9

stakeholder groups G-2

stakeholder interaction 6-4

stakeholder support 5-2

stakeholders 5-2, 6-4

standard based approach G-2

standard compliance agreement template D-1

standard detection grid 2-14

standard operating procedures E-7

standard trapping densities G-3

standard-based approach G-1

standardized procedure 3-5

staple gun 2-3

staplers 2-3, 2-4, A-1

staples 2-2, 2-3, 2-4, 2-11, A-1

State agriculture officials 5-5

State and Federal parks 2-15

State department of agriculture E-7

State department of health E-7

State department of natural resources E-7

State historic preservation office E-7

State laws 1-5

State parks 2-15

State personnel 3-3, 3-4, 3-16

State Plant Health Director 2-13, 6-5, C-7

State Plant Regulatory Official C-7

State program representatives 5-6

State statutes E-4

State universities 5-6

statement of findings 6-4

statistical analysis G-1

steel-toe workboots 3-13

stinging insects 3-28

stone walls 2-21

string 2-3, 2-11, A-1

string lures 2-13

STS Glossary-5

STS action area 2-26

STS Foundation 4-2

STS monitoring area 2-26

STS/transition area 2-26

STS/transition area survey 2-26

submitting spongy moth suspects 2-11

suburban areas 2-15

suburbanization 1-3
Index

Index-12 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

suggestions for the manual 1-9

sunscreen 2-3

Supplemental Environmental Assessment E-2

Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement 6-4

supplying documents 3-20

suppression 1-3

suppression efforts 6-2

surrounding areas 3-7, 3-8, 3-9, 3-24, 3-28, G-1, G-3

surrounding host vegetation G-5

survey area 2-5, 2-22, 2-23

survey data 2-11, B-1

survey methods 2-20

survey protocols G-3

survey records 2-12

survey season 2-5, 2-18, 6-2

survey site 2-23, 2-24

survey tools 2-2

surveyor’s flagging ribbon 2-3

surveyors 2-21

surveys

adult trapping 2-20

date of 2-22, 2-23, 2-24

delimiting 2-3, 2-10, 2-13

detection 2-2, 2-10, 2-12, 2-13

egg mass 2-12, 2-20, 2-23, 2-27

egg mass for regulatory purposes 2-23

preliminary 2-20

results 2-20

small plot egg mass 2-23

targeted visual 2-22

trap 2-26

suspect area 2-18

suspect moths 2-10, 2-11, 2-27

sweet gum 2-6

swimming pools 1-2

T

table of contents 1-6

taillights 3-29

tar paper 2-25

target audiences 5-7

targeted visual surveys 2-22

tax rolls 5-6

teachers 5-7

tebufenozide 3-10

telephone poles 1-2, 2-10, 2-19

television 3-22

temperate hardwood growing areas 1-3

tents 3-22

terrain 6-3

third instar 3-8

threatened and endangered species E-6, E-8

threatened or endangered plants and animals E-5

tick and insect borne diseases 1-10

tick and insect repellent 2-3

timing

for initial trap checks 2-27

for setting traps 2-26

of insecticide applications 3-8

of inspections 3-7

of the survey 2-20

of the treatment application 6-11

of treatment application 6-10

tin cans 2-21

tools 3-24, 3-28

topographic map 2-18

topography 6-3

tourist areas 2-15

tourist attractions 2-7, 2-10, 2-15

tourist destinations 5-7

trade 5-7

traditional pesticides 5-5

traffic laws 1-10

training 3-5, G-5

transects 2-22

transit lines 2-23

transition area 2-20, 2-26, Glossary-5

transition area survey Glossary-5

transition zone surveys 2-4

transmittal number 1-6, 1-8

transporters 3-6

trap and lure costs 2-4

trap array 2-17, Glossary-5

trap assembly A-1

trap catch data G-4

trap catches 2-13, 2-18

trap checking 2-26

trap checking route 2-10

trap checks 2-27

trap density 2-5, Glossary-5

trap locations 2-3, 2-5, 2-10, 2-12, 2-18

trap number 2-11

trap placement 2-5, 2-7, 2-11

trap placement data G-4

trap record sheets 2-3, 2-10, 2-11

trap servicing frequency 2-26

Trap Site Map (PPQ Form 353) 2-12

trap sites 1-10, 2-19

trap surveys 2-26

trap tender’s hours 2-4

trap tender’s name 2-11

trap tending 2-10

trapper’s initials 2-10

trapping activities 4-3

trapping budget 2-4

trapping category 2-18

trapping costs G-5

trapping data 6-2, G-1

trapping density 2-3, 2-15, 2-16, 2-17, 2-26, 4-3

trapping frequency 2-3, 2-15, 2-16, Glossary-5

trapping grid 2-5

trapping period 2-13

trapping program 2-11

Trapping Record (PPQ Form 343) 2-2, 2-10

trapping requirements 2-3

trapping results 6-4

trapping season 2-10, 2-11, 2-12, 2-26

travel costs for trap tenders 2-4

travel trailer parks 2-15

treating the high-risk site 3-9

treatment alternatives 6-6, E-8

treatment applicators 6-4

treatment areas 5-4, 6-3, 6-11, E-7

treatment block 6-3, E-5, E-6

treatment boundaries 2-13, 6-4
Index

3/2024-02 Spongy Moth Program Manual Index-13

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

treatment decisions 2-20

treatment documentation 3-9

Treatment Manual 3-4, 3-8

treatment methods 6-3

treatment operations 6-3

treatment options 3-6

treatment program E-8

treatment site 6-12

treatment timing 6-10

tree branches 2-8

tree canopy 1-2

Tree Check Month 5-7

tree site 2-25

tree trunks 2-10, 2-21

tree trunks and branches 2-20

trees and shrubs 3-6

trees with roots 3-2

tribal lands E-5

tribal leaders 5-5

tribes 6-3

trimmings 3-12

truck and trailer rental companies 3-22

tub grinder 3-18

tubing 3-29

Twitter 5-5

U

U.S. Census population growth areas 2-15

U.S. Department of Agriculture 1-3

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 6-6, E-6

U.S. Forest Service 2-26, 4-2, G-2

understanding of the pest 5-2

uniform array 2-8

uninfested areas 2-2, 2-26

universities 2-15

updates 1-6

urban areas 2-10, 2-16

USDA approved database 2-11, 2-12

USDA Departmental Regulation No. 4400-2 1-5

USDA Departmental Regulation No. 5023-1 1-5

USDA Hazard Communication 1-5

USDA strategic goals 6-5

use of cell phones 1-10

V

value of host plants E-3

vandalism 2-7, 2-8, 2-26

vandalized traps 2-10

vapona Glossary-5

variations in weather 2-13

vegetation 3-28

vehicle safety reminders 1-10

vehicles 1-2, 6-10

veneer 3-12

veneer logs 3-12

veneer mills 2-14

venomous spiders 3-28

vents 3-29

vest, high visibility 1-10, 2-2

visual examination 3-6, 3-13, 3-14, 3-16

W

walls 5-5

warning, as an advisory 1-6

Waters of the United States 6-7

watershed E-5

waybill 3-13, 3-14, 3-20

weather conditions 3-28

weather monitoring 6-10

weigh station blitzes 4-2

well-established infestation 2-21

wheel wells 3-24, 3-27

wheels 3-24, 3-28, 3-30

when to treat 3-8

where to report issues 1-8

white oak 2-25

whole-tree chips 3-15

wildlife 3-28, 5-3

Wildlife and Fisheries Regulations 1-5

willow 2-6, 5-3

wire 2-11, A-1

wire brush 3-13, 3-24, 3-25, 3-28, 3-30

wood chip mills 3-6

wood chips 3-17

wood pulp 3-15

wood residues 3-15

wood waste 3-6

wooded areas 1-10, 2-7, 2-15, 2-16, E-6

wooded parks 1-2

wooden blocks 1-10

woodland edges 2-7

woodlands 2-7

work clothes 3-24, 3-28

work plan 6-4, 6-5

workflow automation G-6

wreaths 3-19

Y

yard equipment 3-13, 5-4

yards for logs, pulpwood, bark, and bark products

3-6

Your Move Spongy Moth Free 1-5

Z

zip ties 2-3
Index

Index-14 Spongy Moth Program Manual 3/2024-02

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z